First Connections Apr-May 2011

FIRSTConnections First United Methodist Church Richardson

Volume 7, Issue 22

April/May 2011

Discover the world of FUMCR’s Children’s Ministry

Join Us for Worship Sundays

FIRSTConnections

Service of Communion & Prayer Chapel, 8:15 a.m. & noon Traditional 8:45, 9:45, 11:00 Dr. Clayton Oliphint, preaching 5:00 p.m. access A Contemporary Worship Experience Dr. Clayton Oliphint, preaching Tune in! WRR 101.1 7:00 a.m. Worship at FUMCR Knock and the door of God’s love and blessing will be opened to you. Enter into God’s presence for there you will find refreshment and rest for your soul, and the light of Christ to guide you through your day.

Hello...Won’t you come in please? Come in, come in and make yourself at home.

I’d like to invite you to walk with me through the rooms of a very special house - a house designed to give everlasting grace, embrace your heart, comfort your soul, challenge your mind, and make-ready your hands. Together we will capture the essence of its furnishings, discover some of its hidden treasures and maybe even be invited to dinner.

Kick off your shoes, make yourself at home, come sit in a comfy chair. Our lives, our love, our joy and our laughter, with you we gladly share.

As a guest of First United Methodist Church Richardson we invite you to make yourself at home through our website and in person on our church campus.

Whether you are considering coming for a weekday program, an evening event, a support group, a seminar or Sunday morning worship service, we put out our welcome mat for you and offer our hand in friendship.

We want your visit to be inspiring, refreshing and delightful. Please come along and enjoy yourself.

Elizabeth Wilson, Director Inviting & Involving 972.996.0134 ewilson@fumcr.com

972.235.8385

Kristen Ceaser Inviting & Involving Associate 972.996.0154 kceaser@fumcr.com

www.fumcr.com

On the cover:

Watercolor artwork created by Alejandra Gonzalez at age four while attending pre-school. Alejandra, now 11, is a member of the 6th grade confirmation class.

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503 N. Central Expressway P.O.Box 830877 Richardson, TX 75083-0877 972.235.8385 www.fumcr.com Senior Pastor Dr. Clayton Oliphint Director of Communications & Worship Gloria Scott Editor/Graphic Designer Elizabeth Gonzalez Communications Associate Kevin Burns Website Manager Francy Collins Contributors Cheryl Brown Allyson George Tim Griffy Melinda Lawrence Marylee Lajoie Patti Otte Connie Presley Julie Williams Zimbabwe Ministry FIRST Connections (USPS 022-024) is published 6 times a year, bi-monthly by the First United Methodist Church of Richardson, 503 N. Central Exp., Richardson, Texas 75080. Periodicals postage paid at Richardson, Texas and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to First Connections, PO Box 830877, Richardson, TX 75080-5315.

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hen Jesus said, “Let the children come to me and do not hinder them,” he set a priority for all of his followers. Part of our role as his disciples is to help foster an environment in which children are not hindered from knowing Jesus and his love. Our Children’s Ministry at FUMCR is something special - a place where children are learning and growing in their faith, and surrounded by adults who are seeking to live before the children “a life that becomes the gospel.” From Sunday School, to Vacation Bible Camp, to Access for Kids, to our many summer camps, to our weekday ministries, to HEROES, to Choir, to Confirmation, and much more, our children are growing in grace and in the knowledge of God’s love.

We are so blessed by a tremendous staff team led by Allyson George, Connie Presley, Kim O’Neil, Marsha Tackett, Marcia Lucido, and their assistants, as well as our outstanding Children’s Council. Lori and I have our third child being confirmed at FUMCR this year, and I know first hand what a difference our Children’s Ministry has made in their lives. I hope you will enjoy learning more about our children’s ministry in this issue of First Connections. It will become evident to you why we are seeing such a great influx of families with young children!

Dr. Clayton Oliphint, Senior Pastor

As we approach Holy Week and Easter, we want you to be aware of the many opportunities to deepen your faith. During Lent we are thinking through the “24 hours that changed the world.” It is truly amazing how deeply this brief moment in time has shaped our world and continues to shape our faith. Our Holy week Luncheon Series will feature Bishop Earl Bledsoe who will challenge us to think about the implications of following Jesus. Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are two of the most meaningful worship services of the year. And, of course, the glorious celebration of the resurrection on Easter is a worship experience like no other. I encourage you to invite or bring a friend to one or more of these services. They will be blessed and so will you!

In Christ, Clayton Oliphint

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W riting

by

P hotography

P atti O tte

by

J im M yer

From Africa n Villages to the Heart of Texas : Sku i nkulo of In a stunningly beautiful, but remote and educationally neglected area of South Africa, three local teachers are attempting to transform the lives of roughly sixty impoverished young elementary students through the power of education, students like nine-year-old Bella Thobane who asks for children’s books in English yet comes to school hungry and in bare feet. The school is named Skuinkuloof, and the task is a daunting one.

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Under Nelson Mandela’s leadership, the government has focused its energy and resources almost entirely on urban schools in an attempt to bring a huge segment of the nation’s population into the “first world” economy in which it now operates, leaving rural schools like Skuinkuloof struggling to survive. And as English is the international language of business, learning it is mandatory for anyone who hopes to benefit from the opportunities now arising in South Africa. The teachers at Skuinkuloof barely speak English and cannot teach the common use of the language.

Thankfully, Skuinkuloof now has something better than a mandate. It has Jim and Kay Myers, long-time members of FUMCR. The Myers family owns a ranch in the northern part of South Africa and discovered Skuinkuloof because some of their ranch employees have children who attend the school.

When Jim first became involved with this struggling school, it had no electricity or running water, its teachers could not feed the children a lunch, it had no teaching aids, textbooks, uniforms or teacher supplies, and it operated in just three classrooms. The school’s teachers live in a very small facility adjacent to Skuinkuloof due to its remoteness; no other school exists within a 25-mile radius. However, the students possess two keys to potential success: a clear desire to become educated and a strong hope for a better life.

In South Africa as in other developing countries, students of all educational backgrounds compete in the same marketplace. The children of this remote area will have to travel to Johannesburg, a thriving metropolis similar to Dallas, to have any real employment opportunities, other than farming. Jim states, “I could only imagine [the students’] disappointment when they actually tried to find employment and realized how far behind they were in even basic skills. It could literally destroy their hope of a better life. I had to try to help.”

And help he did. Jim worked with Skuinkuloof to identify its most critical needs, which he then began to fill. He provided a makeshift kitchen and food to feed the students at least one meal a day. He helped obtain running water for the school and purchased many supplies and teaching aids. Furthermore, Jim introduced Skuinkuloof

to many personal friends in the US who have helped these aspiring students through their own donations.

And now, because of Jim’s vision and FUMCR’s willingness to “adopt” Skuinkuloof, the school has hope.

To nurture that hope, half of FUMCR’s Lenten/Easter offering will be generously given to this small school with big dreams.

It’s not surprising to Jim and Kay that their beloved FUMCR would be willing to help a small group of children in South Africa. They joined the church when Pastor Leighton Farrell was serving as senior minister and were drawn to the welcoming spirit of the church and the sense of “family” its members shared. And although Jim has spent most of the past fifteen years internationally and focused on South Africa, he and Kay have maintained their home in Richardson. They continue to be a part of the FUMCR faith community.

Several people have been involved in the process of making Skuinkuloof a part of FUMCR’s outreach ministry.

As Jim became more aware of South Africa’s social issues, he began sharing his concerns with his friends in the Fellowship Sunday school class. Their interest encouraged him to believe that FUMCR might be able to help this struggling society, so Jim started the process of bringing Skuinkuloof to the attention of the church.

When Jim was home in December of last year, he made an appointment with Pastor Clayton and Reverend Joy Anderson, Associate Pastor of Outreach Ministries, to talk about the school and to see what their interest might be in helping Skuinkuloof in some way. Both Joy and Pastor Clayton were excited at the prospect of this new outreach

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opportunity, so Joy invited Jim to come to the January meeting of the Mission Work Area (MWA) to talk about the school and its needs.

After the meeting, the MWA voted to split the Lenten/Easter offering between the Zimbabwe AIDS orphans (see page 16) and the Skuinkuloof School. Since then, Joy has been in touch with the General Board of Global Ministries/Africa staff person, the director of The Advance of the UMC, and the Methodist Missions person in the Bishop’s office in South Africa to inquire about making this school an Advance project of the UMC. In addition, the team is working to establish a cooperative partnership with the Willows Methodist Church in Pretoria, the closest Methodist church to Skuinkuloof.

Once the connection is firmly established between FUMCR, the Methodist missions program, and Willows Methodist Church, the local church will be directly involved in developing a list of Skuinkuloof’s critical needs and then establishing a program to meet those needs. Jim states, “The needs of the school and the children are so great that we will have an endless list of projects. I am hopeful that one of our first priorities will be to get [the school] an English teacher. This would open up so many other opportunities to bring immediate assistance to the school…I believe that would be the place to start.”

Through our generous FUMCR Easter offering, students like Bella Thobane will finally get a chance to realize their dreams.

(To learn more about the Myers’ ranch in South Africa, visit www.seringa-safaris. com. For information about the Methodist church that will be administering aid directly to the school, go to www.willows.org.za.)

“

The country [of South Africa] is absolutely stunning. The people, particularly the rural people, are the most genuine people I have ever met. They lead a simple life, accept the world that they know as it is, and show no bitterness for the terrible ways they have been ignored in the past.

Their tribal cultures are each unique, and being in South Africa is like seeing the world as we have only heard and read it about it in our earliest times. Within about two hundred miles, I can see probably more than a hundred years of development in our own society. The climate in South Africa is, without a doubt, the best in the world. The wilderness areas truly resemble one of our wildlife movies…it is God’s world right in front of you.

- Jim Myers

”

Jim and Kay Myers

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Children’s Ministry Works Together P hotography

by

F rancy C ollins

o, lock, Marcia Lucid m left: Allison Bla il, fro Ne w O’ ro m p Ki To t: : lef am inistry te Front row from ; ge or Ge The Children’s M on lys Al Sharon Asmah, .

Marsha Tackett, ley, Liz Angstadt es Pr ie nn Co r, Venus Gree

Name: Role in Chil dren’s Minis try: How Long o n Staff: Goal for CM : Family: Favorite Ch ildren’s Boo k: Favorite Sc ripture:

E

veryone in Children’s Ministry fits together like an integral piece of a puzzle. Their “puzzle” is how to provide outstanding ministry to children from birth through sixth grade. Not only do they minister to the children themselves, but to the parents. This is a tough task, but these gifted and talented women make it look easy. Enjoy learning more about each one of them through these brief answers to questions asked recently.

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Kim O’Neil

Allison

• Children’s Choir Coordinator for 9 years • Dream for children’s choirs is to have more children participate in the Music Ministries of this church.

Would love to have the children participate in a church-wide musical for all ages.

• 2 children, Rachel, 15 and Kyle , 13

Blaloc

k • Assis tant Dire ctor of Mother ’s Day Out the Preschool an d program • On s . taff just o v er 3 year • Hop s. e is that th e c h il that com e throug dren and familie h the pro s that they gram ar part of th e loved and an im s feel e school and chur portant • 2 chil ch family dren – a . son, Dre a daugh w , 13 and ter Ann Claire, 1 • Good 0. night Mo on—read children it with ea them in— ch night before tu both cking a very sp family. ecial boo k for the

• “Let the children come to me, do not hinder them…”

er

e Venus Gr

Marcia Lucido

• Preschool, MDO and Kindergarten Director for 18 years.

• To have the new Mother’s Day Out classrooms in the new west wing filled to capacity.

• 2 sons, Brad and Jeff and 1 lovely granddaughter, Isabella.

• The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats.

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Weekday tor to the c e ir D t n nter • Assista d Development Ce Kids Chil years. for 10 1/2 rovide tinue to p n o c to is ful care • Goal d wonder n a g in v sage, lo en. for childr 2 new hters and g u a d 2 s).

• dren (twin grandchil 8:16.

• Luke 1

Marsh

a Ta

ckett • Di rector of We Child Develo ekday Kids pment for 20 years Center • Go al is f have a or the progr am to tl in each east 1 certifi ed tea classro ch 7 out o o f 9 roo m (Current er ly ms) • 2 s ons an d 2 grand 7 year daugh s old ters, • OW EN an d MZ of a re marka EE, true sto ble frie r ndship y

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st for pa r o t c e r i or en’s D ut teacher f r Co d l i h O .C ’s Day sistant • As ars. Mother . at 15 ye ney fore th e b s r gh mo a u o n 7 ye e see love to fund all the ream up! d l u o • W e budget to s that we d dea in th ming i m a r g y, 18 pro Mallar d :4-7 n a , pians 4 p w, 22 i e l i r h D P • oon; ight M N d o o • G

resle nnie P

Allyson George:

• Director of Children’s Ministries for 9 years

• Dream is having to turn away Sunday School volunteers because there are too many!

Liz An

gst

adt • Ad minist rativ Taugh t presc e Assistant f or h for 10 years a ool and Mot 3 years. h t the B • It w eltline er ’s Day Ou ould b t p ropert e nic progra y. m cou e if the HER ld hav own h e a fac OES camp ere at ility of t h e chur • 22 their ch. year o son; bo ld daughte ra t Out, P h attended M nd 19 year o rescho ol, Sun other ’s Day ld Confir da mation Class a y School and • Dr . Seuss t FUM CR. ’s Put us eac M e in the h spec Z oo ial just ne ed to fi gifts and ta . God gives lents a nd the our gi n fts. best p lace to d we share

• 2 daughters, 12 and 14.

• There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven... Ecclesiastes 3

Susan Hurst

• Started working at FUMCR in 1994 and took on current role as Nursery and Child Care Coordinator 5 years ago.

• 1 daughter, Wendy, and a son-in-law, Philip.

• A Pocket for Corduroy

• Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.

Matthew 19.14

Susan H

urst

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Sign-up for Fun Vacation Bible Camp Shake It Up!

June 13-17 9:00-12:00 each day.

Cost: $15 – includes t-shirt Ages: 4 years old (by June1st) through 5th grade (completed) Registration: starts Sunday, May 8

HEROES Summer Camps

For special needs children & everyone else!

The Summer Bridge – New! Starting June 19 weekly all summer 9:00-Noon daily

Cost: $150.00 a week Morning day camp for children ages 4-8 years old who would benefit from structure during the Summer. This camp helps maintain routine during the summer for successful re-entry into school for the Fall.

Registration: form online or Children’s Ministry office

Dates: June 20-24; June 27-July1; July 11-15; July 18-22; July 25-29; August 1-5.

God & Me Camp June 27-30

9:00-4:00 each day

Cost: $50 Ages: 1 , 2 , 3rd grade (completed) All scouts earn a badge through this program concerning God and the Scout and first understandings of faith.

Registration: online or Children’s Ministry office

Cost: $350 Registration: Check website for more detailed information and registration form.

9:00-Noon

st

nd

God & Family Camp June 27-30 9:00-Noon

Cost: $50 Ages: 4th and 5th grade (completed) All scouts earn a badge at this camp themed with faith and family topics.

Registration: online or Children’s Ministry office For more information on the God and Country Series, www.Praypub.org

Praise Cheer Camp July 25-29 9:00-Noon

Cost: $65 Ages: K-5th grade (completed) Work with cheerleaders from local high schools and competitive squads to learn skills in jumps, stunts, cheers and chants.

Registration: online or Children’s Ministry office

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www.fumcr.com/pages/ children_summer_camps

this Summer at FUMCR Elementary Art Camp July 11-15 9:00 -Noon

Cost: $65 Ages: 1st-5th grade (completed) Students will explore all forms of art—from pencil drawing to chalk art—to oil painting to fun, creative 3-d art!

Registration: online or Children’s Ministry office

Elementary Science Camp July 18-22 9:00-Noon

Cost: $65 Ages: 1st-5th grade (completed) Come explore God’s creation through science and more.

Registration: online or Children’s Ministry office

Dance Camp July 18-22 9:00-Noon

Cost: $65 Ages: 1 -5th grade (completed) Great for beginner dancers as well as those that have a love for dance. Students will learn about various dance techniques and styles in a positive Christian atmosphere.

Registration: online or Children’s Ministry office st

Younger Children Science Camp August 1-5 9:00-Noon

Cost: $65 Ages: 4 year olds-kindergarten (completed) Come explore God’s creation through science and more.

Registration: online or Children’s Ministry office

www.fumcr.com/pages/ children_summer_camps

Summer Fun

Session I - July 11-15 Session II - July 18-22 9:00-Noon Cost: $60 Ages: 3 years old (by 9-1-11)-kindergarten (completed) A fun week of pre-school activities and experiences that revolve around the theme “At The Pond”. *This is a 1 week program. Children attend either Session I or Session II.

Registration: Children’s Ministry office only

Mother’s Day Out

Session I – July 12-14 Session II – July 19-21 9:00-Noon Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday Cost: $35/week.

Ages: 1 year old (by 7-1-11)-age 2 Registration: Children’s Ministry office only

Music Makers August 1-5 9:00-Noon

Cost: $65 Ages: 1 -6th grades (completed) An intense week of choral singing, drama, movement, and set building, culminating in a Sunday morning performance of the children’s musical titled “What’s up, Zak?” – the story of Zacchaeus.

Registration: online or Children’s Ministry office st

Basketball Camp

June 27-30 (Mon-Thur) 9:00-Noon OR 1:00-4:00 p.m.

Cost: $85 Ages: 5 years-5th grade (completed) All the basic skills will be covered and led by high school coaches and players.

Registration: online or Children’s Ministries office

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Everyone is a Hero W riting

“HEROES Summer Day Camp is an incredible gift to our family” says a camper’s mom. “My daughter talks about camp all year long—asking when it will be here.” Children’s Ministries Director, Allyson George states that the HEROES camp started six years ago as a response and exploration into ways to reach unique children with special needs. The camp has grown from six students to around 75 each week, with the addition of older classes and extended day camps for working parents. The program has reached its growth limit for children and has a waiting list for most weeks. HEROES camp is held on the second floor of the education center Josh Schilling almost every and campers week during the summer.

Director, Josh Schilling is also the father of a special needs son and knows first hand how

by

A llyson G eorge

important this camp is to families. “We hope to not only provide a fun Summer Day Camp experience but also teach life skills that will help them in years to come.” The curriculum includes speech therapy, art therapy, yoga, swimming, karate and more as the needs of the age levels change. Older students learn to ride public transportation, go to job sites and volunteer, and go grocery shopping together. “Because of the generosity of the First United Methodist Church Richardson and the community, we are able to provide almost endless opportunities for these kids and their siblings each summer,” Director Schilling shares.

“I love how upbeat and positive these campers and counselors are each summer. The campers walk through the halls and “HER wave and laugh and bring OES such a unique look at life to Summ all of us that work here in er Day C the summer,” says Liz Angamp i s an stadt, Children’s Ministries incred ible g administrative assistant.

ift to mily”

our fa

2010 Zoo trip

2010 campers 12 F ir s t C o n n e c t i o n s

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Vacation Bible Camp W riting

by

C heryl B rown

Vacation Bible Camp Leader Spotlight

June 13-17 For one week each June, more than 500 children descend on our church. From 9 a.m. to noon each day, they occupy virtually every corner of the campus.

In the Bartula Family Life Center, they carefully craft masterpieces out of beads, popsicle sticks and glue. Outside those doors, they throw water balloons and pick up marbles with their toes. In the Education Building, they claim every upstairs room as they feast on wafer cookies and drink specially colored juice.

They visit animated storytellers who help them transcend time to visit the lands where Jesus walked. In Odgen Fellowship Hall and the Choir Room, they sing— loudly. With movement. Lots of it.

Each morning, their wiggling, giggling little bodies cram into the pews of the Sanctuary, and the massive room comes alive with singing, dancing and cheering. The place practically vibrates with the sound of it all.

A more glorious noise you’ve never heard. It’s the remarkable sound of 500 children absorbing and joyfully proclaim the love of God. Some of them for the first time. Ever!

Vacation Bible Camp is a huge undertaking each summer. Planning for the next year begins as soon as the week is done, and it takes hundreds of committed volunteers to pull it off successfully.

A team of 21 women will lead this year’s VBC, managing logistics for everything from registration to crafts to snacks. The Children’s Welcome Center will be transformed into a Bible Bistro to fit this year’s theme of Shake It Up Café: Where Kids Carry Out God’s Recipe. Many of those women—as well as the multitudes of teachers, snack servers and music leaders—have been devoting their time and energy to VBC for years.

And they will for years to come.

Why? Because just after that week in June, when they take a much needed breather from the commotion, they’ll still be humming those VBC songs.

They, too, will have absorbed and joyfully proclaimed the love of God.

From left, Kristie Domangue (Arts & Crafts), Wendi Ellis (Arts & Crafts), Cheryl Brown (Director), Jennifer Sandidge (Recruitment and T-shirts), Amye Wilson (1st and 2nd Grade Storyteller), Stacey Thomas (Co-Director), and kneeling, Jennifer Martin (3rd and 4th Grade Coordinating Teacher) and Kristen Ceaser (Pre-K Coordinating Teacher).

As 500 children attend a week of Vacation Bible Camp, obviously a lot of adult and teen volunteers are needed to make it happen!

Many faithful teachers and workers volunteer year after year. VBC’s longest continuing leader is Debby Duncan, who has been in charge of all VBC Supplies for at least 17 years. Debby is very detail-oriented, to say the least! She makes sure our teachers have every marker, stapler, paper and craft item they need. She has the knack to locate all those unusual supply requests!

When Debby is not gathering VBC supplies—which takes about a month from start to finish— she teaches Social Studies at the Highlander School. She is married to Rob. They have two sons, Andrew, 23 and Reed, 21. They’ve been members of FUMCR for about 20 years. Debby has always made her Supply Chairman job a family affair. Every year as she arrives with carloads of supplies you’ll see Rob, Andrew and Reed on duty as the delivery takes place. Rumor has it that they also help sort, collect and return supplies during the week.

Debby says her favorite part of VBC is the sound of happy children moving around the church. “It’s fun to watch the church being transformed into the theme of the week.” She enjoys watching the creativity and energy that that come from everyone. It renews her spirit and readies her for the rest of the summer. That’s what makes a good volunteer a GREAT volunteer! Thank you, Debby, for your years of service to Children’s Ministries!

C onnie P resley

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Holy

Palm Sunday

April 17

With palm branches waving, children singing, and our Chapel Singers and Chancel Choir in the loft, this morning begins with a celebration of Christ’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The music and sermon then turn to focus on the Crucifixion.

24 Hours That Changed the World, The Longest Day Dr. Clayton Oliphint, preaching

Walk Thru Holy Week

Mark 15: 33-39

2:30-4:00 p.m.

Education Wing Welcome Center

Come tour a dramatic reenactment of the events of Holy Week. Live actors will be portraying each day of Holy Week as a narrator leads you down the hallway to each event. Recommended for all ages. No admission charge.

Easter April 24 7:30 a.m.

Chapel

Worship with communion and special music.

Meditation: Rev. Marilyn Dickson

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Week

Holy Week Lunch Series April 18-21 Noon Monday - Thursday

Maundy Thursday April 21 *

7 p.m.

Bartula Family Life Center

Come to the Garden. “Are you still sleeping? Enough! The hour has come.”

This will be a service of meditation and music taken from the Taize community in France. The sanctuary will be filled with bright candles and hauntingly beautiful music; a time of reflection on the 24 Hours That Changed the World. *Child Care Available for 4 yrs. and younger

Good Friday April 22 *

Vesperae de solennes de confessore

7 p.m.

Simply known as Vespers this beautiful work, written by W. A. Mozart, will be performed by Chancel Choir and a 20-piece orchestra. The service will also include our traditional observance of darkness; signifying Christ’ death on the cross.

Sunday

*Child Care Available for 4 yrs. and younger

Celebration Worship 8:30 a.m.

9:45 a.m.

5:00 p.m.

24 Hours That Changed the World, Victory Dr. Clayton Oliphint, preaching

The Holy Week lecture/lunch tradition at FUMCR will continue. Bishop Earl Bledsoe, the residing bishop of the North Texas Conference will be our guest lecturer each day.

Continuous lunch service beginning at 11:30 a.m., $5. Reservations www. fumcr.com/pages/24Hours or Sunday mornings at the Shawver Welcome Desk beginning April 3.

“Changing Your World: Things That Make A Difference!”

The series is based on Adam Hamilton’s book and Lenten Devotional entitled: 24 Hours That Changed the World, and selected lectionary scripture texts from the Gospel of John. The Bishop will share personal stories as well as utilize Adam Hamilton’s teaching method of “seeing yourself in the biblical story.”

April 18 Changing Your World Through Generosity!

John 12:1-11

11:00 a.m.

April 19 Changing Your World Through Sacrificial Love!

John 12: 20-36

Mark 16:1-7

Strings, brass, percussion and organ will accompany our hymn singing and choir anthems this morning. Chancel Choir will fill the choir loft and sing a stirring opening fanfare with brass, followed by our traditional opening hymn, “Christ the Lord is Risen Today.”

The music of Easter will feature new songs and standard anthems, closing with Handel’s “Hallelujah!” from the Messiah.

Additional parking at the Richardson YMCA with continuous shuttle service 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

April 20 Changing Your World Through Forgiving Others!

John 13: 21-32 April 21 Changing Your World Through Humility!

John 13: 1-17

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From African Villages to the Heart of Texas: Zimbabwe W riting For the 2nd year, we will give a portion of our Lenten Offering to support orphans in Zimbabwe who are related to members of our congregation. There are 169 children currently benefiting from the ministry. They go to 22 different schools all over the country. These children have been orphaned by the AIDS epidemic as well as the economic and political situation in Zimbabwe.

The following is part of an annual report provided to the church by our Zimbabwe Ministry and written by Tapiwa Machakayire.

We would like to start by thanking all the sponsors who have helped make this project a success. May the good Lord continue blessing you as you remember the less fortunate. Just a little background on the Zimbabwean educational System: A full school year is comprised of 3 semesters generally referred to as School Terms. Each school term is 3 months long and after every term children get a month break.

Tuition is paid per term. The school system is divided into 3 levels as well and you have to pass the second level to be eligible to go to the third level and if you pass the third level then you are eligible to go to college.

Primary level: this is where children do first grade through seventh grade. Secondary Level: eighth grade to eleventh grade, this is referred to as Form Level so eighth grade is referred to as Form 1 and eleventh grade is Form 4. After Form 4 children will be eligible to get employment, but it is prestigious to go to Form 5/high school. High school is basically 2 years and is referred to as A Level; this is meant to prepare children for college. There is some screening at Form 4 level; you have to pass extremely well to get to Form 5. After A Level then the successful children go to college.

That said, because of the poor economic situation in Zimbabwe, it has become extremely difficult for some children to continue with education no matter how smart they are because they cannot afford to pay tuition. These are some of the children you are helping.

Future Plans: Our Dreams

We are hoping to continue supporting the same children so that at least we can see them go through all the levels of education, rather than add and drop kids.

We also want to supply some books for some of the schools. However, we have realized that our priorities 16

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Z imbabwe M inistry

might not be the most pressing issues to the folks back home. In one email we had suggested sending them some books and the headmaster responded saying they would appreciate the books but the most pressing issue was the lack of window panes on some of the classrooms. With winter coming in June, he indicated that it’s difficult to teach while kids are shivering because of the cold. So this is one of the things we are looking at.

Also we have some schools where we hope to sink at least one bore hole [water well] and, if possible more. The reason behind this is we are trying to help them be self reliant. With a bore hole they can at least start a garden and sell the vegetables in their area.

Again thank you so much for making this ministry a success.

The Idea Machine Children’s Council

W

W riting

by

M arylee L ajoie

hen I first heard about the Children’s Council at First United Methodist, I had no idea what it was.

My good friend and fellow Sunday School teacher invited me to visit the group one Sunday afternoon. Once I arrived, I was surprised and pleased to see that this council is made up of women just like me! Moms of children from birth to sixth grade that get together once a month to help guide the church in our children’s needs.

The Children’s Council is led by Allyson George, Director of Children’s Ministries and Connie Presley, Assistant Director of Children’s Ministries. Most of us know Allyson from Children’s Time during worship and we’ve seen Connie helping us find our kids Sunday School Class. The remainder of this council is members of the church who offer their opinions and insight to help the church fulfill our needs. We meet once a month and discuss upcoming children’s events at the church and share ideas of what we could like to see in the future.

Did you know that a lot of the Summer camps that our church offers come from ideas that the Children’s Council had? The church really values our opinions in deciding what camps to offer our kids and we’ve had some very fun and affordable summer plans as a result.

We also are instrumental in bringing programs like Walk Through Holy Week together. This event happens on Palm Sunday and is a chance for our kids to experience the last week of Jesus Christ with real scenes and actors. It’s an amazing way for our kids to get to know this story in a real life way. Real people serve as actors who act out the scenes of that last week in Jesus’ life.

One of my favorite programs that came out of Children’s Council is our MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) program.

MOPS is a national program that our church participates in and the leaders of this program came out of our group. As a result of our MOPS program, several new families have joined our church and helped members and non-members alike come together in a Christian environment. It warms my heart to see the women who participate in this program support each other during tough parenting times like the terrible 2’s and 3’s. From MOPS, we are expanding to create a group called “MomsNext” which will speak to parents of elementary school age, because even though our children may outgrow those preschool years, it doesn’t always get easier. I’m very proud that our Council is recognizing the changing needs of our parents and children and creating new programs to appeal to everyone.

There are several other programs that the Children’s Council has a part in, unfortunately, I don’t have space to list them all. I am excited about the opportunity to make an impact at our church with only a small time commitment and would encourage anyone who is interested in joining us to contact Allyson or Connie.

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Shining New Faces in Youth Ministry Meet the Interns!

Sheena Logan

Kimberly Westlund

I’m a first year Perkins student working towards a masters degree in Church Ministries. I am hoping to combine this degree with my bachelors in Music Business and open a nonprofit that reaches out to youth through various forms of music. I am extremely excited to have the chance to work with the youth at FUMCR!

I am from Dallas, Texas and currently am a student at Perkins School of Theology at SMU. I am working towards my Masters of Church Ministries in Urban Ministry. With this degree, I hope to fulfill my vocation in community outreach, either through a community center or non-profit organization. I hope to be an advocate for families and children as a support system by providing love, enriching programs, and resources. I am excited to be a part of this church, as well as, experience and share the love of God with the family of our youth!

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The Fearless Leaders

Dedicated Children’s Sunday School Teachers

E

very Sunday, as you drop your children off in their classrooms, please say a prayer of thanks for the wonderful volunteers that take the time to faithfully plan and teach your children each week.

We have teachers who are teaching for the first year, some who have taught for 5 years, ten years—with our longest being 25 years!

We asked a few of our wonderful teachers why they teach.

Jon & Monica Waters said it has been a fun way to get to know the families of our church. Jessica & Preston Pillsbury said they were new to the church and this was a logical first step to get involved. Jacque Bryant said this is the first place kids really get to know the Bible stories and she wanted to be a part of that. Hayley and Jerod Hangartner taught Summer Sunday School and said it made them realize how vital it is for kids to have teachers in their lives. Sheri Adams said she wants kids to know that church is FUN! Monica and Jon added that it’s really nice to see the kids grow spiritually. The Pillsbury’s related a story about one child giving a prayer that was more articulate and joy-filled than you would hear from a lot of adults—and they teach the four year olds! Jacque said walking down the hall and having a child she taught years ago recognize and talk to her makes it all worthwhile. Hayley & Jerod remember a little girl asking to be the head reader for the following week and excitedly skipping out of the classroom when they told her yes. And Sheri’s “that’s what makes it all worthwhile” moment came last year as she watched the Senior Class of 2010 graduate. They had been “her class” since 3rd grade.

As a parent of one of those graduates, I want to say thank you to Sheri, and all the other teachers who give so much of their time and talents to be here for our children each week. If you ask most of them, they will tell you it is all worthwhile. Many times they end up learning from the kids!

If you are interested in teaching our children, please contact Connie Presley at cpresley@fumcr.com for summer opportunities.

W riting

by

C onnie P resley

Summ Ju

er Sun School day

ne 5 – Element Augus ary child t 28 ren 1 st-5 th be upsta grade (c irs learn omplete ing the Teacher d) will Fruits O s are ne f The Sp eded we ir it. ekly for “Move this gro u p .

Up” Su Sunday, n d ay Jun June 5 th quarter. is the fir e5 It is the st Sunda day eve y o f to the n o ur Summ ryone p ext age romotes er or grade be 3 by o r “moves level. All Sept. 1, up” children 2011 or next cla who wil older w ssroom. l ill move Signs w up to th ill be po the buil e sted aro ding to und help fin d rooms .

WANTED: Summer Sunday School Teachers!

Teachers Needed for ALL Age Levels of Summer Sunday School Classes!

Ages 2 through completed Kindergarten are downstairs. These classes are team-taught and each class has 2 teams of teachers so that each team only teaches every other Sunday – or 6 times for the entire summer!

Completed 1st-5th grade classes are upstairs.

The teaching requirements are very flexible for this group! You may sign up to teach once, twice, or all summer. Going to be out of town a lot? This is the perfect opportunity to teach—just sign up for the weeks you are in town.

Contact Connie Presley cpresley@fumcr.com for more information.

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Check Out the Library!

W riting

and

P hotography

by

J ulie W illiams

Association (CSLA). This helps them as they update the church’s collection each year with the newest and best selections.

The library also has a wide variety of materials for adults.

This includes items for Sunday school teachers seeking new curriculum, as well as books for individuals looking for new ideas or inspiration in their personal journey of faith. The United Methodist Women (UMW) reading program is also a provided service.

“The library is open to anyone who is a member of the church or has a child in the church’s day school program,” Whitfield said. To get started, simply contact or visit the library to fill out a patron card with your name, address and telephone number. Once your name has been added to the library’s system, you will be given a patron number and will be ready to start checking out books.

H

ave you visited our church library lately? It’s full of wonderful materials to be shared with your kids, Sunday school classes and book groups.

The shelves are lined with everything from the latest children’s books to devotionals and inspirational books for youth and adults.

“Our main purpose is to provide books and materials to help the congregation grow in their faith,” said Rosanna Whitfield, who serves as the library’s volunteer coordinator. The library runs on an all-volunteer basis – with extended hours during the week as well as Sundays.

Books are checked out for three weeks at a time (one week for audio/visual items), and renewals are available on most materials. Library hours are: Sundays 8:15 a.m.12:15 p.m. and Mondays-Thursdays 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

For more information online, go to www.fumcr.com/ pages/library.

Whitfield said the library is also open for special group visits. Want to take your young Sunday School class on a tour featuring your favorite picture books? Want to bring your adult study group to work on a special project with all the reference materials at hand? All you need to do is contact the library at 972.301.0143 to make the arrangements.

Formerly located in the Bartula Family Life Center, the library has since been moved to the church’s new west wing, making it more accessible to many children’s and adult classrooms. The new location features attractive windows and better lighting. “It’s more airy and cheerful now,” Whitfield said. She added that it also has been a convenient location for the day school children, who come by for a monthly reading program.

The library has plenty to offer young readers. “We have a wide collection for children,” Whitfield said, including a solid assortment of award-winning books. She and the other volunteers keep track of which books are recognized with various awards throughout the year. They also track recommendations by the Church and Synagogue Library 20

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Darci (10) and Whitney (8) Williams find some of their favorite books in the church library.

A Spirit of Power W riting

by

T im G riffy and M elinda L awrence S trategic V isioning T eam

members of the

W

O

E

cherished past. bright future.

n March 7th, the Church Council of First United Methodist Richardson made a historic decision for our congregation in approving “Vision FUMCR”.

This document is a bold and ambitious statement about the strategy we will undertake as a church over the next 5 years in order to fully realize God’s plans for us.

You’ve heard about Vision FUMCR over the last year, in this space, from the pulpit, and in town hall discussions.

But now it’s been finalized . . . and it’s time for us all to understand the plans and what it means for us as members of this great church and become involved in the plans. As Clayton mentioned in a sermon last month, this strategy is all about going from Good to Great. We have done wonderful things for 125 years at First Methodist in Richardson, leading people to Christ and using the gifts we’ve been given to serve our community. There is more to be done . . . for the harvest truly is plentiful, but more workers are needed!

The strategy will sound very familiar to most of the members of FUMCR, revolving around the three core principles of our current mission statement:

Welcome people for Christ Grow people in Christ Serve people with Christ Although familiar words, the Church Council has embraced a strategy for putting these thoughts into action. As the Vision team was formulating the strategy, the guiding principle that the team used was to balance boldness with achievability, to understand that while we have a great deal of wonderful accomplishments as a church there is yet much for us to reach for. The specific dreams that we have for FUMCR that are embodied in Welcome, Grow and Serve are bold – they include things

that we have talked about for many years such as more effectively representing the diverse community that Richardson has become, and building upon a strong youth ministry to make it best in class. They also include a reaffirmed commitment to broader Methodist goals such as responding to the health and poverty concerns of the world around us, and to providing an environment within FUMCR for all of us to fully realize our own goals of spiritual development. These objectives in many ways are not new but viewed in their entirety, and with a true commitment to achieving them, they are nothing short of transformational.

Just like the dream of moving into our new church home, this transformation will remain a dream unless the implementation of the strategy engenders the same level of commitment and passion that FUMCR as a congregation brought to the building of our new campus.

We are beginning a journey, and just like the Israelites leaving Egypt it promises to be a path that has its own difficulties and challenges. But God never promised us that doing his will would be easy – His promise is that it is the right thing to do and will bring the ultimate reward.

On April 3 and 10, you will have the chance to attend open forums where the strategy and implementation timeline will be discussed. You will also have the opportunity, which we hope many/most/all of you will seize to become an active participant in bringing the transformation to life through the implementation of the strategy. In the meantime, go to the website (www.fumcr. com/vision.) to read the strategy and pray about how we as a church can use this vision to achieve God’s will for First United Methodist Church in Richardson. The next 125 years can, and will, be wondrous!

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a Spirit of power. (2 Timothy 1:7) F ir s t C o n n e c t i o n s

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W riting

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M elinda L awrence

P hotography

T

he Church Council had an amazing retreat February 12. Several new members joined the council and I feel so blessed to be a part of this wonderful group. At the retreat, we spent time discussing the role of the Church Council, finances, and committee reports, but the most significant item we discussed was the Strategic Vision Plan. For 2011, Council’s focus will be on beginning the execution of the Strategic Vision Plan.

I wish that we had unlimited resources so that we could accomplish much of the plan in this first year!

by

F rank C lem

In addition to challenging the Council members to be involved in implementing the Strategic Vision Plan, I also challenged them to invite a friend to one of the many incredible programs at church, to invite a new person to join their committee (remembering that we all first got involved because someone personally asked us to join a committee) and to grow in their own faith.

Melinda Lawrence serves as chair of the Church Council and can be reached at melinda.lawrence@ey.com.

Top from left: Dan Bourland, Annette Bird, Phil Longacre, Sallye McDowell, Jim Montgomery, Martha Montgomery, Danielle Burdette, Carolyn Jones, Marylee Lajoie, Jean Baumann, James Lee, Bob Campbell. Front from left: Alex Vandruff, Amye Wilson, Kevin Knox, David Gonzales, Ida Dwight, Melinda Lawrence, Linda Campbell.

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2011-2012 CHURCH COUNCIL Melinda Lawrence, Council Chair Kevin Knox, Council Vice Chair

Communication Dawn Kahle David Gonzales

Amy Welborn, Recording Secretary

Sallye McDowell, Inviting & Involving Ministry

Dianne Weideman, Director Finance

Jim & Martha Montgomery, Lay Leaders

Brian Bull, Finance Chair

James Lee, Men of Faith/Men of Honor

Jean Baumann, Chair Staff Parish Relations Committee

Bob & Linda Campbell, Senior Adult Ministry

Dan Bourland, Trustees

Annette Bird, Singles Ministry

Terry Brehm, Phase II, Project Executive Committee Amye Wilson, Adult Intentional Faith Development

United Methodist Women Co-Presidents Ann Conner Ida Dwight

Marvilou Walters, Caring Ministries

Brad & Amanda Moulton, Young Adult Ministry

Daniel Burdette, Celebration Music Ministry

Stu Roberts, Youth, Adult Rep.

Marylee Lajoie, Children’s Council

Alex Vandruff, Youth Representative

Carolyn Jones, Church & Society

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I

n honor of the Church Staff from Frank & Donna Clem. In honor of their anniversary from Tom & Suzanne Martin.

In honor of Mike & Dolores Spence from Amy Spence. In Honor of Pam Shamblin from Marty & Steve Curtis.

In honor of Mr. Jack I. McJunkin, Sr. from Anonymous. In honor of Becca, Caroline & Natalie Brown & Morgan VanVoohis from Judy & Jim Reynolds. In honor of Kellie Criswell & John Rortvedt’s wedding by Mary Lightfoot.

In honor of Mac & Susan Hood’s wedding from Mary Lightfoot. In honor of Barbie & Gary Coleman from Barrett Coleman. In honor of Mike & Mary Lightfoot from the Chancel Choir. In honor of Kathryn & Woody Alexander from Frieda Wyatt. In honor of Marilyn Dickson from Bobbye Barth. In honor of Ida & Jerry Dwight from Fran Gant. In memory of Debbie Mulvenna’s father from Richard & Kay Fleming, Jack & Marla Orr. In memory of Ken Shamblin from Tim & Gladys Wende. In memory of Kody Hughes from Jim & Linda Reed, Jerry & Diana Leatherman. In memory of Jim Nickell from Nona Wilder, Tim & Gladys Wende, Jim & Jane Sigler, Brett & Mary Ann Lewis. In memory of Lila Henson from Angie Henson, David & Joyce Gregory. In memory of Mary Kay Thompson from Timothy & Tracey Moore, Tim & Gladys Wende. In memory of Mike Wentz’ mother from Ralph & Claudia Collins. In memory of Willem Vanderstraaten from Bragg & Jill Smith. In memory of Alyce Lefwich from Louann Storey. In memory of Ruth Leach from Carolyn & Charles McBeth, Bonnie Edwards, Tom & Annette Stone, Rita Newman, Robert Patchen. In memory of Helen McGraw’s father from Mary & Mike Lightfoot. In memory of Rebecca Parks from Mary Lightfoot. In memory of Violet Morrison from Holly & James Lee. In memory of Karen Lloyd’s father from Joyful Questers Sunday School Class. In memory of Judy Hancock and special thank you to the Apostles Sunday School Class from John Hancock. (weeks of 11/8/10, 11/15/10, 11/22/10, 11/29/10, 12/6/10, 12/13/10 & 12/20/10).

I

n honor of Jim & Anne Makins from Pat & Suzy Makins. In honor of Kay Schafer from Tim Dyson. In honor of Mary Howard & Bob Diggs from Dan & Cathy Murphree. In honor of Jack David Hayward from Terry & Tom Watson. In memory of Mary Kay Thompson from Sam Thompson. In memory of Eugene Krautter from Janis Lee. In memory of Jerrye Smith from John & Jeanne Bradford. In memory of Oz Godsey from John & Jeanne Bradford, Johnie Amend, Wayne & Phyllis Gifford, Inez Ashmore, Paige & Shane Kanatous, Charles Clawson, Dallas Symphony Association. In memory of Patricia Stewart from Mona & Dave Munson, Jon Aills. In memory of Bill Barbee from Mildred & Clyde Denham. In memory of Bruce Madden from Bev Groves, Mary McConnell, Lonnie Collings, Winnogene Holland, Ralph & Meredith Marston, Rita Denman & Becky West, Seeker Sunday School Class, John Hancock, Woody & Cynthia Denman. In memory of Frank Chamberlain from Lucy Hemming. In memory of Joe Young from Mark & Bonnie Johnson, Caroline Evans, Joe & Luella Johnson. In memory of A. R. Howard from Dan & Cathy Murphree, Joyful Questers Sunday School Class, Col (Ret) & Mrs. Vance Hugo, Jr., Bonnie Edwards, Bob & Linda Campbell, Jim & Martha Montgomery, Earnest & Sylvia Deadwyler. In memory of Helen Emmet Shires from Richard & Kay Fleming. In memory of Joan Huddleston’s daughter from Jane O’Kelly, Bob & Paulette Mansell, Don & Margie Franks, Mildred Ochoa, Sharon Rodgers & Carol Stanley, Bonnie Edwards, Max & Kay Schafer, Johnie Amend, Jackie Wilder, Cecil & Ouida Rippy, Bill & Geri Jones, Charles & Janalu Parchman, Debbie & Kenneth Carpé, Becky & Frank Harris, Donna Lewis, Ruth & Jack Brixey, Marjo Jeanes, Cal Tex Riders, Bob & Linda Campbell, Dick & Jolynne Harvey, Billy & Betty Self, Betty Bartula, Bud & A. J. Carr, Dick & Virginia Luthans, Earnest & Sylvia Deadwyler, Jon & Joy White, Vivian Mobley, Charles & Kitty Kemp, Wanda & Stanley Beall, C. W. & Betty Deloney. In memory of Elsie Whitmarsh from Beverly Evans McDonald, Ralph & Anne Healy. In memory of Pam Shamblin’s mother from Gloria & Gil Scott, Don & Margie Franks. In memory of Tony Myers’ father by the Carillon Ringers. In memory of Evelyn Caruthers from Mike & Mary Lou Caruthers. In memory of Mary Ambrose from Don Ambrose, Earnest & Sylvia Deadwyler, Richard & Charlotte Crawford. In memory of George Sparkman from Ann Sparkman Green. (weeks of 1/10/11, 17, 24, 31 & 2/7, 14, & 21, 27 & 3/7, 14).

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December 5, 2010

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

7.

1. Siham Zakhary joins by transfer by transfer from another denomination. She is a clinical therapist. 2. Jaya Jonathan joins by renewing her profession of faith. She is a teacher at St. Paul the Apostle School. 3. Austin and Gloria Young join by renewing their professions of faith. Austin is with Phoenix Textile and Gloria is with the Consignment Store. They have two children, Leah (19) and Austin (17). 4.

Susan Hood joins by transfer from another denomination.

Her husband is clergy Mac Hood. Susan is retired. 5. David and Gaynelle Kent join by transfer from another United Methodist church. David is self employed with Kent Consulting Service and Gaynelle is an executive assistant with Exxon Mobil. They have two grown children. 6. Crystalyn Roberts (No photo available) joins by renewing her profession of faith. She is a self-employed photographer and is married to Christopher Roberts. They have a daughter, Harper, (18 mos.) 7. Adam and Mandy Fullington join by renewing their professions of faith. Adam is a commercial realtor with Prudent Development and Mandy is a speech pathologist with Grace Presbyterian Village. 8. Adam Berroteran joins by profession of faith. He is an auditor with Starwood Hotels. 9. Austin Howard joins by affiliating his membership here along with his membership at FUMC Wichita Falls. He is a researcher at UT Dallas. 10. Kent and Jean Harrington join by transfer from another denomination. Kent is a chiropractor and owner of Harrington Chiropractic Center.

8.

9.

10.

January 16, 23, and 30, 2011

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

1.Wally and Lois Reed join by transfer from another United Methodist church. Their children are grown and they are both retired. 2. David Smith joins by renewing his profession of faith. He is a retired computer software engineer. 3. Lee Henderson joins by transfer from another denomination. She has grown children and is retired. Her daughter and son-in-law are Shelly Henderson and Spike Huddleston. 4. Shelly Henderson joins by transfer from another denomination. She is a retired mortgage banker. Her husband is Spike Huddleston, her mother-in-law is Joan Huddleston, and her mom is Lee Henderson. She has 3 grown children. 5. Mark Johnston joins by transfer from another United Methodist church. He has 4 grown daughters and is retired. He is a member of the Chancel Choir, and his daughter and family are Jennifer, Chip, Clay and Drew Rawlinson. 6. Lynda Dailey joins by transfer from another United Methodist church. She is retired. 7.

Bobby and Teresa Cave join by transfer from another United Methodist church. They own a travel agency, Take Time to Travel.

7.

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February, 2011

2.

1.

7.

6.

3.

4.

5.

9.

8.

12.

10. 11.

13.

14.

1. Doug and Kathy Roberts join by transfer from another United Methodist church. Doug is with L-3 Communications and Kathy is a teacher at Arapaho UMC Day School.

They have two children, Jackson (7) and Caroline (4). 2. Wade and Karen Varner both join by profession of faith.

Wade is with Wilson Office interiors and Karen is a stay at home mom. They have two children, Caden (6) and Emma (3). 3. Alan and Kim Christopher join by transfer from another United Methodist church. Alan is a tennis pro at Brook Hollow Country Club. Kim is a stay at home mom. They have 3 children, Coady (6), Kendall (5) and Callie (2). 4. & 5. Kathleen and Molly Baldwin join by profession of faith. They are both with Betty Spinelli, CPA. 6. Chris Clark joins by profession of faith. Christiana Clark joins by transfer from another denomination. Chris is a teacher with Mesquite ISD and Christiana is a curriculum specialist with RISD. 7. Luella Schaap joins by transfer from another denomination and is a retired seamstress with 4 grown children.8.

Tony and Holly Martin join by transfer from another denomination. Tony is with United Surgical partners and Holly is a stay at home mom. They have two children, Allison (11) and Emily (7). 9. John and Chelsea Middleton join by transfer from another United Methodist church. John is an attorney with Haynes and Boone, LLC and Chelsea is a music teacher from home. They have one daughter, Sera who is 3 yrs. old. 10. Rob and Adrienne Peters both join by profession of faith.

Rob is a systems engineer with Rockwell Collins and Adrienne is a stay at home mom. They have two 13 mo. old twins, Brady and Kayla. 11. Jaye Keen joins by transfer from another denomination and is retired. 12. Tasos Theodorou joins by transfer from another United Methodist church. He is an accountant and is currently between jobs. 13. Paige Yonker joins by transfer from another United Methodist church. She is a paralegal with Fee, Smith, Sharp & Vitullo. 14. Suzie Kuddes and her son DJ Kuddes join by transfer from another denomination. Suzie is with United Healthcare and DJ is a student. Suzie has another son, Daniel, who is in college. 15. JD and Heather Grimsley join by transfer from another denomination. JD is with MedRad/Possis and Heather is a stay at home mom. They have three children: Ryan (7), Evan (6) and William (2). 16. Cathy Coursey joins by baptism and profession of faith. She is a registrar with Medical City Dallas.

17. Jeff and Rachel Winton join by profession of faith. Jeff is with Sendero Business Services and Rachel is a program manager at SMU. They have two children, Hanna (4) and Jackson (3).

15.

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17.

March, 2011

3.

2.

1.

6.

5.

4.

1. Stuart Thomas joins by transfer from another United Methodist church. He is a payroll tax suppervisor with Accor North America. 2. Susan Yost joins by renewal of her profession of faith. She is in marketing and public relations with Market Wave. She has a daughter, Olivia, who is in 4th grade.

3. Cheryl Orange joins by transfer from another denomination. She is a teacher here at our Child Development Center. She has a son, Jacobi, who is 5 yrs. old. 4. Vanessa Negron joins by profession of faith.

She is an escrow officer with Corelogic. 5. Eric and Jessica Gore both join by profession of faith. Eric is in human resources with Southwest Wholesale and Jessica is a personal trainer with Telos Fitness Center. 6. Dianne White joins by transfer from another United Methodist church. She has 5 grown children, 16 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren! 7. Jon Ann Rucker joins by transfer from another United Methodist church. 8. Amy Jernigan joins by renewing her profession of faith. She is an auditor with Defense Contract Audit Agency. 9. Keith Cutler joins by transfer from another denomination.

He is a carrier with the U. S. Postal Service. He has two children, Rachel (11) and Andrew (7). 10. Rebecca Wood (no photo available) joins by profession of faith. She provides child care in her home. She has two children, Austin (11th grade) and Shelby (7th grade). *New members as of 3/20/11

7.

8.

9.

from the Business Office

We wrapped up a very successful stewardship campaign for the 2011 operating budget. A very warm Thank You for supporting the ministries of the church! After remaining at a flat budget for two years, we were able to increase our operating budget 4% from $4,460,000 to $4,630,000! We are excited about this year and all the promise it brings!

Thank you again for your generosity and continued support!

Dianne Weideman, Director of Finance

Budget Trends

5,000,000

4,692,200 4,514,000

4,630,000 4,460,000

4,500,000 4,056,600

4,460,000

4,000,000 3,352,400

3,500,000 3,108,000 3,000,000 2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Budget F ir s t C o n n e c t i o n s

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PERIODICALS

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

503 N. Central Expressway P.O. Box 830877 Richardson, TX 75080-5315 972.235.8385 www.fumcr.com

Dr. Clayton Oliphint, preaching

Next Issue June/July 2011 Happy Birthday FUMCR – 125 Years