First Connections Dec 2011-Jan 2012

FIRSTConnections First United Methodist Church Richardson

Volume 7, Issue 26

December 2011/January 2012

Simple Gifts

Welcome to First United Methodist Church Richardson!

Hot apple cider, a decorated tree, holiday baking, Christmas worship services and New Year’s resolutions all signal the upcoming holiday season. A blanket of emotions from excitement, anxiety, stress, and joy fill our minds and hearts. The sheer magnitude of all the details and expectations for the season are enough to make your head spin unless you slow down and take a deep breath. For some, this time of year may bring joyful memories of years past. Others may grieve the loss of a loved one. For others, this holiday may mark a fresh start for a new and exciting year! Wherever you find yourself this holiday season, First United Methodist Church desires to be a part of your journey.

Receive this as your personal invitation to gather with us and experience the peace, love and sanctuary of uplifting worship. Celebrate God’s love for you and allow the simplest gift, the birth of Christ, to transform your holiday into one that is rewarding, spiritual and even relaxing.

We are available if you have questions or would like more information.

We look forward to meeting you soon!

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

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

Join Us for Worship Sundays

Service of Communion & Prayer Chapel, 8:15 am & 12 noon Traditional 8:45, 9:45, 11:00 am Dr. Clayton Oliphint, preaching 5:00 pm access A Contemporary Worship Experience Dr. Clayton Oliphint, preaching Tune in! WRR 101.1 7:00 am Worship at FUMCR

503 N. Central Expressway P.O.Box 830877 Richardson, TX 75083-0877 972.235.8385 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 Pavielle Chriss Mike Lightfoot Debra Hobbs Mason Pam Shamblin Beth Smith Dianne Weideman Erica Yaeger

972.235.8385 fumcr.com FIRST Connections (USPS 022-024) is published six times a year, bi-monthly, by the First United Methodist Church Richardson, 503 N. Central Expwy., 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 75083-0877.

Simple Gifts A story is told about the late Bishop Monk Bryan driving his family to church for Christmas Eve worship services where he would be preaching. His young son asked him the question, “Dad, are you going to try to explain Christmas to us again this year, or are you going to let us enjoy it?”

I have always loved that story and have thought about it in relation to my own children, and with the congregation, each Christmas. I want so much for all of us to understand the beauty of the Christmas story, to grasp the incredible good news of the implications of the incarnation, and to somehow comprehend the mystery and majesty which is Christmas. But, of course, Christmas can never fully be explained.

It can, however, be experienced and enjoyed.

At FUMCR, we are inviting you to slow down in the midst of the holiday rush and experience the “Simple Gifts” of Christmas. During the Advent/Christmas season we will focus our attention on the simplicity and beauty of the Biblical story of the birth of Christ. My prayer for each of you is simply this: That you receive the simplest gift – God is with us in Christ.

I feel so blessed to be the pastor of this great church. On behalf of the Oliphint family and the entire church staff, I wish you and yours a Merry Christmas!

2011 has been an amazing year at FUMCR! I appreciate the way you support the church with your prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. 2012 begins with a series called “The New You.” I look forward to seeing you in worship during this Advent Christmas season, and as we begin a new year.

In Christ, Clayton Oliphint

Dr. Clayton

W riting

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P am S hamblin

f truth were told, most of us envy those families that manage to handcraft all of their Christmas gifts. The adults choose sustainable, green giving while the children make creative and useful gifts for their offerings. Picture the scene: a table full of kiddos busy at work on their gifts, smiling, being kind to their siblings while creating beautiful items. REALLY? For most of us at FUMCR the holidays come upon us in a whirl of church, office and school events, parties and preparations that leave little time for the dream scene described above. We all do our best to enjoy and honor the Advent and Christmas season.

As Christians we know and cherish the reason for the season, but we are, after all, human and in need of reminding now and again that the crush and demands will pass and we will be left kneeling at the manger.

Enter one of the many blessings of being a part of this vital, generous and mission-minded congregation—FUMCR’s annual International Christmas Market. Join me in visiting four church families who embrace alternative gift giving for the holidays, and who shop at the Christmas Market where they purchase a large percentage of their gifts for their children, grandchildren, extended family and corporate associates.

Lori and Clayton Oliphint had never experienced an event such as this until coming to FUMCR. They have watched the market grow in the ten years they have served FUMCR. Upon seeing the market for the first time, Lori’s parents were stunned at the layout, organization and items offered in the market.

Lori and Clayton always choose Heifer animals or shares of the animals for each of their children, nieces and nephews. Youth and Neighborhood Services shares are dear to their hearts. Both their mothers, generous and caring women, always receive/d shares for Body and Soul, while one of Clayton’s brothers, the late Kelly Oliphint, received the Maua Hospital shares as Kelly actually worked in this very hospital. The coffee and soup are popular with the family as are the woven ornaments, the angel tree and crèches that Lori collects. A year or so ago, Erin, their oldest, found a purse she loved. The ladies at the “purse table” put Lori in the know and she bought the purse for one of Erin’s gifts. When Erin took her Mom to the table to show her the purse she was met with the bad news that the purse had been sold. Little did Erin know that she had several FUMCR moms making sure that item would be under the tree for her.

Many years ago, Alys and George Richards began their gift giving with Heifer shares sequestered in Christmas stockings 4

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for their children and grandchildren. One Christmas morning, when the entire family was together, the four grandchildren ran to their stockings first, dumping out the contents searching for their Heifer envelopes. Once found, they discussed the animal they got and swapped stories about years past and what animal they had received. To Alys and George this was a pivotal moment to see that the seeds of caring and compassion were being sown with their simple gifts of these shares. George is all over the wooden puzzles for his grandchildren while Alys writes a poem to her grandchildren telling them that there is a “surprise” in the hidden compartment of the boxes. The coffee, woven ornaments, crèches, crosses and jewelry for their daughtersin-law round out their purchases. The Richards have watched the Christmas Market grow over the years and find all the work, preparation and choices “inspirational.”

Jane and Andy Rooker have one grandson that loves the gecko and many of the old fashioned toys, but they purchase for all of their five grandchildren (another one soon to arrive) remembering their children, grandchildren and friends with the beautiful handmade ornaments and other gifts. Jane is particularly fond of the South American or Peruvian crèches that depict Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus. A favorite of hers is a copper crèche that she keeps on a table next to her chair where she frequently sits to read, focus and experience “quiet time.” Jane carries a beautiful round basket that she purchased at the market to transport snacks to her Stephen Ministry meetings. Heifer, UMCOR and Habitat shares are always on their list and they look forward to choosing “angels” from the tree each year. When Jane thinks about the Christmas Market it reminds her of the hymn, “Oh Love, How Deep, How Broad, How High,” which speaks of the love of God for the global community.

Linda and Paul Zucconi remember that their International Christmas Market experience began through giving shares in honor of their friends and associates, Betsy and Hank Haswell. Hank was deeply involved in Body and Soul. Linda and Paul wanted to honor the work that Hank did with this ministry and from that experience the Zucconi’s involvement grew. Linda serves on the Mission Team and is in charge of the Friday evening refreshments for the opening of the International Christmas Market this year. Paul helps set up for the market each year. As in other years they will hone in on the Heifer Project, Maua Hospital, Nueva Vida UMC, the crèches, angel tree and the many items for sale. Of course, coffee and chocolate is on the list. As with many of us, Linda and Paul need nothing and find themselves so blessed. Now that their children are grown Linda and Paul encourage them to gift with shares instead of “things.”

Do any of these families rely totally on the Christmas Market for their gifts? No, but they have found, over the years, that this alternative gift giving is at the crux of a meaningful and joyful Christmas season. The market offers an array of “teachable opportunities” as we Christians seek to live a life that becomes our calling as disciples of Jesus Christ.

George and Alys Richards Lyn, Ron, and George II, Su Meredith sie, Faye, Laur en, and Bank s

The Rooker granddaughters

Purchase Mission Shares online through December 25, 2011. fumcr.com/adventgiving F irst C onnections

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Welcoming with Open Hearts and Open Arms

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E rica Y aeger

Spotlight on the Inviting and Involving Ministry You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God. Leviticus 19:34

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smile is a universal welcome, which is why members of the Inviting and Involving Ministry are full of them. On any given Sunday, nearly 20% of the congregation are guests of the church, with many of them being first time visitors.

However, this ministry, comprised of Director Elizabeth Wilson, associate Kristen Ceaser, membership secretary Jennifer Rawlinson, a 15 person leadership team and nearly 300 volunteers, serves up more than smiles. Its mission is to make sure guests and new members of FUMCR are being uplifted, supported and shown the grace of God. “Our job is to get to know the people who come here so we can find a way to connect with them and address their needs,” explains Wilson. Wilson and her team open many doors for our guests—whether physically holding a door open before a worship service, or metaphorically opening a door by introducing them to one of the many church ministries. “First time guests may have entered our church through Mothers of Preschoolers, Upward Basketball or Vacation Bible Camp. Regardless of how people arrive at FUMCR, we want to make sure they feel a sense of belonging once they are here,” says Wilson.

She adds what an amazing experience it is to be able to share in their faith journey. “It is a privilege to be one of the first people to interact with a newcomer and share in both their fear and excitement as they seek to find a church home.”

Ceaser echoes that sentiment. “Everyone has a story to tell. One of the best parts of my work is meeting people and hearing the life journey that has brought them to FUMCR,” she says. “To share God’s love with another is just the ultimate in job satisfaction.”

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The Inviting and Involving Ministry presents many opportunities for guests to learn more about the church community, which are designed to assist them on their journey.

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Coffee and Conversation: a casual, meet and greet reception where guests gather information and volunteers find relevant ways to connect guests to church programs.

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First Friend Appointment: an opportunity for personal interaction with a staff member, and campus tour.

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Thinking About Joining?: a luncheon for prospective members with an opportunity for

intimate conversation with Senior Pastor, Dr. Clayton Oliphint and church members who share personal stories of the significance of FUMCR. These programs are often driven by passionate volunteers of the ministry.

Helen Blanchard is one of those volunteers who coordinates Coffee and Conversation. “Being the coordinator for Coffee and Conversation has allowed me to talk to guests and help them understand all the wonderful things this church can do in their lives,” she shares. “It is very satisfying to see the people we’ve talked to join the church and become active members. We are a warm and welcoming church, and I am so grateful to be a part of making our guests feel welcome.”

In addition to these programs, Foundations Classes are offered for newcomers and new members. “The purpose of these classes is to provide small group opportunities for fellowship and study,” Wilson explains. “Basic building blocks for one’s faith journey are covered in five classes: Understanding Baptism, Methodism 101, Way of Prayer, Get Acquainted with the Bible, and Understanding Your Spiritual Gifts.”

(Jesus speaking) “…For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven, and gives life to the world.” They said to him, “Lord, give us this bread always.” Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; he who comes to me shall not hunger, and he who believes in me shall never thirst.”

John 6:33–35 The work of the Inviting and Involving Ministry extends well beyond Sunday morning worship services. The many volunteers stay engaged throughout the week to ensure guests continue to experience a warm FUMCR welcome.

A well known symbol of hospitality and Jesus’ love is a loaf of bread, which is why ministry volunteers deliver a gift bag containing loaf of homemade bread and

church information to first time guests.

“Having a church members bring bread to our home was so unexpected and such a pleasant surprise,” shares Patti Otte, who joined the church recently. “I loved that a church of FUMCR’s size still has such a personal touch. The gesture made us feel welcome, and we went back as a result.”

In an ongoing effort to stay in touch with newcomers of the church, a correspondence team works diligently behind the scenes to follow up with guests by making phone calls, sending emails and hand written notes. Rawlinson has the opportunity to reach out to each of these first time guests. “It is a joy and honor to be a part of reaching out to our guests and welcoming our new members.

It is my hope that all who enter here will feel the love of Christ and the warmth of this wonderful family of faith.”

Both Wilson and Ceaser fondly recall their own first time walking through the doors of FUMCR. Wilson came with her fiancé in 1997 and was warmly welcomed

by Rev. Jimmie Mobley, who served over the Welcoming Ministry at the time and who later married them. She began volunteering at the information desk located in the courtyard at the church on Beltline road and was asked to join the staff in 2007. This mom of three was inspired to serve others through the church early on in her own personal faith journey. She was influenced by her grandmother and the mother of her best friend, who had an active role in the church.

Ceaser returned to the Richardson area five years ago with her husband after he retired from the U.S. Air Force. “We started looking for a church home in the area and made a list of a few different churches we planned to visit,” she shares. “FUMCR happened to be first on the list. We never made it to any of the others.” Ceaser, who also has three children, joined the staff just over a year and a half ago.

While it is evident that the members of the Inviting and Involving Ministry have big hearts with a great passion for FUMCR, the leaders are quick to point out that they have help from the F irst C onnections

entire FUMCR community. “We’re blessed to have such a friendly, warm congregation. It makes the formal work of being radically hospitable occur seamlessly. Love and openness are in the hearts of the people of this church and it is evident in everything we do,” Wilson exclaims.

Perhaps Ceaser sums it up best, “I love the way our volunteers treat the church as if it is their own home...opening the doors for guests, greeting people with a smile and making sure they are comfortable and know how glad we are to have them here. I’m convinced that if there was a kitchen in the Shawver Welcome Center, you could smell homemade goodies any day of the week!”

Leadership Team Members: Sallye McDowell, Church Council Representative, 2009 – 2011 Hayley and Jerod Hangartner, Church Council Representatives, 2012 – 2014 A.J. and Bud Carr Helen Blanchard Jeanne Brewer Marilyn Evans Phyllis Goldman Jeretta Henry Stacy Hughes Janeva Longacre Diane McKinney Barbara Moxham Susan Schafer Billie Snow Joann Zastoupil Murlyn Zeske

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A r o f d c vent i su M Chancel Choir, Chapel Singers Youth Choir, Handbell Choirs and Children’s Choirs will provide worship music throughout the season of Advent. There will be music from the Shawver Welcome Center balcony every Sunday through December 18.

Some of this year’s music highlights include:

Saturday, December 10

Sunday, December 18

A FIRST Inspiration Concert

Music of the Season

Christmas with the Dallas Wind Symphony and Chancel Choir 7:30 pm The Dallas Wind Symphony joins the Chancel Choir for an evening of your favorite Christmas music.

Tickets online fumcr.com/concerts.

Tickets: $10 ($8 for groups of 6+) 8

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A professional orchestra with the Chancel Choir will provide festive music as a part of all worship services.

2011

Children’s Choir Musical

Sunday, December 11, 7:00 pm Sanctuary

Saturday, December 24 Christmas Eve Services 1:00 pm Music by ensemble with organ and guitar.

4:00 pm Family Worship with pageant and congregational singing.

6:00 and 9:00 pm Chancel Choir and Chapel Singers will be joined by strings and brass as we celebrate this most holy night.

11:00 pm Music by ensemble with organ.

Sunday, December 25

Special M usic

Advent Sunday Mornings December 4, 11, & 18 Enjoy the music of the season in the Shawver Welcome Center.

Musicians: Amy Hammer (flute), Kathleen Parsons (piano), Precious Metals vocal trio, Bells of Bronze Youth Handbells, Ted Thompson (piano) and his grandchildren, Delaney (violin) and Samuel Martin Mar (piano).

One Worship at 11:00 am A time to gather with friends and family.

Carol singing highlights this service.

Music for your enjoyment between worship hours F irst C onnections

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Advent 2011

Simple Gifts Love has come and never will leave us!

Love is life everlasting and free.

Love is Jesus within and among us.

Love is the peace our hearts are seeking.

Love! Love! Love is the GIFT of Christmas!

Love! Love! Jesus, Immanuel!

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Worship

November 27 Isaiah 11: 1-10

The Gift of a Promise

December 4 Luke 1: 26-38

The Gift of a Purpose

December 11 Advent Offering

The Gift of a Name

The Advent offering this year will go to support four organizations close to home.

December 18

Network of Community Ministries – Richardson Emergency Assistance program

The Gift of a Child

Methodist Children’s Home in Waco – residential home for children and youth who can no longer live with their families

Matthew 1: 18-25

Luke 2: 1-7

Special music with orchestra.

Christmas Hope 6:30 pm Chapel Meditation, Rev. Debra Hobbs Mason

Bethlehem Center in south Dallas and Wesley Rankin Center in west Dallas – United Methodist community centers offering programs for children, youth, and senior citizens

A service of worship for those who have suffered loss, through death, divorce, separation, or unemployment. Stephen Ministers will host a reception in the Shawver Welcome Center following the service.

Advent offering envelopes are available in the pew backs. Designate check for this offering or give online at fumcr.com/adventgiving.

Christmas Eve December 24

1:00 pm Family Worship with candlelight

The Gift of Christ Luke 2: 8-20

4:00* Family Worship with pageant

Rev. Rodney Whitfield, Message

6:00* 9:00 11:00 pm Traditional Worship with candlelight Dr. Clayton Oliphint, Message

December 25

Simply Christmas

11:00* am only

Casual dress

* Child Care 3 years and younger

John 1: 1-5, 10-14

Dr. Clayton Oliphint, Preaching F irst C onnections

* Child Care 4 years and younger D e c e m b e r 2 0 11 / J a n u a r y 2 0 1 2

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January 23 - 26, 2012

n a few short months, First United Methodist Church Richardson will serve as host to United Methodist Church pastors, staff and laity from across the nation for the 2012 Large Church Initiative Conference. Attendees will focus on education, sharing, growth, self-discovery and vision through the conference’s theme of New Life, New Hope…

Living Into a God-Sized Vision. Seeking to renew and revitalize United Methodist churches, LCI will be an uplifting and inspiring time. It will help launch us into the future and assist participants in realizing God’s vision for their congregations.

The majority of the conference will take place on our church campus. On January 23, we are hosting a welcome event that includes a concert with artists Jars of Clay, Josh Wilson and Eric Michael.

(This concert is also open to the public. Go to fumcr. com/concerts for more information and to purchase tickets.) There will be outstanding keynote speakers that represent leadership from not only the church world, but also the business community. Worship services are January 24 and 25 at 7:00 pm. The conference concludes with a panel discussion led by Colleen Barrett, President Emeritus of Southwest Airlines Co.; R. Gerald Turner, President of SMU; and Ray Hunt, Chairman, President, and CEO of Hunt Consolidated, Inc. What will your role be in LCI 2012? We need you now. We need you during the conference. We need you after the event. For a few hours, for a few days… during the morning, during mid-day, during the evening...each of you can find a place to volunteer.

To register as a volunteer, go to fumcr.com/lci2012 and complete the information form.

Now is the time for you to become a part of the God-Sized Vision of LCI!

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B eth S mith

Thank you to those that have already become *as of 11/18/11 sponsors for LCI 2012*: Andres Construction Bradbury Lane Kip Callahaghan Chicago Title Company Judy Cash Chick-Fil-A Chiloso Mexican Bistro City of Richardson Ralph and Carol Donnelly Owen & Jenell Elrod Jim & Diane Grandey Kreg R. Hall Hall Realty Group of RE/MAX The Hyatt Regency North Dallas Jersey Mikes Richardson Kinado OfficeMax Joe Olguin and Jane Aitchinson Opportunity Bank RE/MAX DFW Associates Tiff’s Treats Time Warner Cable UMCOR WRR Radio Yumilicious

Would you also like to make a sponsorship donation?

Contributions will purchase snacks for the break stations, bottled water, coffee, signage, etc. Sponsorship opportunities are available in any denomination—$25, $50, $100, $250 or $500. Make checks payable to FUMCR – LCI 2012. Place in the collection plate on Sunday mornings or mail to FUMCR – LCI/Sponsors, 503 N. Central Expressway, Richardson, Texas 75080.

Large Church Initiative of the United Methodist Church

New Life, New Hope. . . Living into a God-Sized Vision

You’re invited!

Tuesday, January 24, 2012, 7 pm

Wednesday, January 25, 2012, 7 pm

Worship Leader – Rev. Olu Brown, Lead Pastor, Impact Church, Atlanta, Georgia

Worship Leader – Rev. Paul Rasmussen, Associate Pastor, Cornerstone at Highland Park United Methodist Church, Dallas, Texas

Contemporary Worship Service

New Traditional Worship

Monday, January 23 Concert, 7 pm

featuring: Jars of Clay

Sanctuary

Welcome Event

Josh Wilson Eric Michael

Purchase tickets: fumcr.com/concerts irst C Connections onnections FFirst

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Winterfest

2012 February 4, 2012 Bartula Family Life Center Doors Open 8:00 am

$10.00

Breakfast, Lunch, Workshops & Entertainment 30 30 s! includes Continental Registration required • Space is limited!

Worksho r o d n ps!

Ve Registration begins January 1, 2012

Shawver Welcome Center on Sundays Church office during the week online at fumcr.com

Entertainment by Dave Tanner – Storyteller, Humorist, Singer Something for people of all ages, not just seniors!

Workshop offerings include topics such as:

Dreams, Financial Planning, Belly Dancing, Hospice Care, Landscaping, Texas Oncology, Wonders of the World, Wild Birds Unlimited, Practical Uses of the Computer, Pottery, Senior Living Specialist, Buying & Selling on the Internet, plus many other areas of interest!

Questions? Contact Rev. Fred Trevino at 972.996.0103 or Ken Cheairs at 972.980.1053

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Sponsored by the Senior Adult Ministry

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cherished past. bright future.

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This spring, a team led by Tim Griffy recommended a Strategic Vision for our church for the next five years.

The Church Council approved the vision and charged the church with implementing the vision.

Since that time, an implementation team was created, and the ball is now rolling. Members of the team are:

• • • • • • •

Holly Lee, chair Ken Ceaser Tim Griffy Rev. Debra Hobbs Mason Kevin Knox Dr. Clayton Oliphint Rick Shamblin

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R ev . D ebra H obbs M ason

Expect to see regular communication about the team’s progress.

As our senior pastor recently said, “The vision being proposed here is one that can only be accomplished when we all join together in a common quest to do something great for God that we could never do on our own or without God’s help.”

Support the vision. Get involved. Contact a task force member if you want to help.

You can find the entire Vision document on our website at fumcr.com/vision.

Holly Lee

This team has already and will continue to enlist the support of a number of members. This is a congregational effort. This is a solid group with a nice complement of people that served on the group that developed the Strategic Vision and people that have a passion to see the Vision implemented and joined the team to be a part of that process.

Integral to the vision is a “Good to Great” theme—we are building on the wonderful traditions, accomplishments and strengths of our church, while pushing ahead and challenging the status quo.

The Vision centers around our mission statement. There are 11 priority areas and 35 suggested actions, all categorized under “Welcome” “Grow” and “Serve.”

Our church staff has already made significant progress toward some of the goals. One particularly exciting initiative is the creation of an Intentional Faith Development system to guide people in their journey as disciples of Jesus Christ. It will include a self-assessment tool and process for helping people to determine the right next steps that would be ideal for their personal faith journey. Look for more details on this soon.

Essential to successful implementation is monitoring and accountability. That will be a focus area as we implement the various priority areas.

AN ADVENT STUDY “The People of the Nativity” December 4

Joseph

Matthew 1:18-25

December 11 Mary Luke 1:26-38

December 18 The Shepherds Luke 2:1-20

Sundays

through - December 18 11 am - 12 noon Led by Rev. Fred Treviño Chapel

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Created by God Youth Ski Trip for Fifth & Sixth Grade Students

February 9-11, 2012

$30 includes book, lunch, snacks, and supplies Registration:

March 9-14 during Spring Break

Class is limited; friends are welcome!

Children’s Ministry Office 972.996.0120 or online www.fumcr.com/registration You will not be formally registered until fee has been paid

Facilitators:

Cheryl Bishop & Allyson George Trained Facilitators for Created by God

Schedule:

Parents Thursday, February 9: 7:00 - 9:00 pm Students Friday, February 10: 7:00 - 9:00 pm Saturday, February 11: 9:00 am - 2:30 pm *Parents join students at 1:30 pm for final hour

PA RT Y Date 12.18.11 5 - 8 pm TIME

For 7th - 12th Grade Youth

Join us in Colorado for an awesome time on the slopes!

Information and registration online at www.getweird.org

for a weekend of fellowship, fun, and friends!

THE Weekend Retreat Riverbend Retreat Center January 13-15, 2012

Caroling, holiday treats, & more!

Deadline to register December 30!

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As the new year approaches, we are working on preparing our annual church budget. The majority of our budget comes from pledge giving from the congregation. Pledges allow us to better estimate the contributions we will receive in the next year so we can be good stewards when allocating expenses. Pledging also allows you to prayerfully consider your financial commitment to the church as a part of your faith journey.

Please prayerfully consider making a pledge commitment for 2012 or take a step up if you are able to do so. We will be mailing out 2012 pledge packets in January. You may also pledge online by going to www.fumcr.com. Click on Pledge 2012 on the homepage. Turn in your pledge today and let us know that the church can count on you in 2012 as we seek to welcome, grow, and serve.

Blessings, Dianne Weideman, Director of Finance dweideman@fumcr.com 972.996.0106

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From September 18, 2011 David and Kim Miller Children: Logan and Lauren

Ian and Melinda Brown Sons: Nathan and Daniel

Katie Bohrer

Steve and Renee Toton Son: Cash

Scott and Julie Petty Children: John and Lola

From October 9, 2011 Casey Kuettle

From October 2, 2011 Kyle Henson

Michelle Wood

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Jeff Ward

Mary Stueber

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Ruth Mengistie Son: Einathan

October 16, 2011

Jeffrey and Elizabeth Rainbolt

Susan Dadres Children: Jesse and Emma

Nancy Shaw

From November 6, 2011

From October 30, 2011

David and Alice Cromwell Children: Emily and Nicholas

Jacquelyn Pack Ray and Kat Sulak

October 23, 2011 Amber Riddle

Paul and Shannon Daves

from the Business Office

Oct 2011 YTD:

Actual YTD Income Budgeted YTD Income Shortage

Actual YTD Expenses Budgeted YTD Expenses Overage

Our Glorious Gifts

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$3,619,300 3,626,000 (6,700) $3,704,400 3,673,300 (31,100)

Currently, we are fairly close to budgeted income for the year.

We still need your gifts to finish the year in a strong position.

Expenses are over budget year-to-date, mainly due to increased water costs during the hot summer, unexpected repairs during ice storm, high gasoline prices and repairs on vehicles and paper goods. As always, thank you so much for your gifts to the church! Please contact me should you have any questions or concerns.

Blessings,

n honor of Tommy Houghteling from Bill & Betty Corbin. In honor of Joann Zastoupil from Frieda Wyatt. In honor of Mary Lightfoot from Sandra Bridges, Bobbie Barth. In memory of Sarah Cross from Amy Charalambopoulos, Gloria & Gil Scott. In memory of John Hamlett’s brother from Duane & Tere Hirsch. In memory of Howard Kennedy’s brother from Duane & Tere Hirsch, Ben & Betty Sloan, Earnest & Sylvia Deadwyler, Bonnie Edwards. In memory of Landra Dobbs’ mother from M. G. Cox, Jr., Landra & Joe Dobbs. In memory of Bill Deaton from Cassie & David Deaton & Family. In memory of Frank Chamberlain from Jo Anne Pitcher. In memory of Evelyn Baughman from Gloria Bohne, The Bobbie Thomas Family. In memory of Mercy Elizabeth Whitfield from Bob & Linda Campbell.

Memorials/Honorariums Weeks 9/19 & 26, 10/3, 10 & 16, 24, & 31, 2011

Dianne Weideman, Director of Finance dweideman@fumcr.com 972.996.0106 F irst F irstC C onnections onnections

D e c e m b e r 2 0 11 / J a n u a r y 2 0 1 2

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PERIODICALS

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

503 N. Central Expressway P.O. Box 830877 Richardson, TX 75083-0877 972.235.8385 fumcr.com

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February/March 2012 Ash Wednesday Lent Opportunites