August Tidings 2023

the Tidings

AUGUST 2023

Farewells and Blessings 22

Inside this issue: Adult Education . . . . . . 19 Children’s Ministry . . 28-30 Churchwide . . . . . . . .12-18 College Ministry . . . . . . 25 Congregational Care . . 4-5 Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 GUMP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 GUWF . . . . . . . . . . . 22-24 Membership . . . . . . . 20-21 Message from Pastors Tim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Scott . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Mimi . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Missions . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

The Lord said to Moses, 23 “Tell Aaron and his sons, ‘This is how you are to bless the Israelites.’ Say to them: 24 ‘The Lord bless you and keep you;25 the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; 26 the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.’ 27 So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.” - Numbers 6:22-27 Tim Carpenter We often hear this benediction as we are saying farewell to one Senior Pastor another. It is a way to be blessed by the name of the Lord as we go forth.

Separating from a time together, whether long or short, is often bittersweet, and it is appropriate that it occurs with a blessing.

Special Thanks and Farewell to Eva McPeters This is one such bittersweet moment. Eva McPeters has announced her retirement, effective August 27. After 32 years of playing the organ, piano and harp for our worship, Eva has become a fixture of Germantown United Methodist Church. I can attest to the privilege it has been to work with Eva for the six and a half years that I have been at GUMC. Each traditional worship service at which she has been a part has been a worship service in which I knew the preludes, postludes, and accompaniment of hymns and anthems were all in very good hands. Eva has been active in helping to plan traditional worship, and she has shared her wisdom and knowledge of worship planning with grace and professionalism.

Eva has not only given her talents for so many worship services on Sundays and holidays, but also for funerals and weddings and special concerts. I know most of you have wonderful experiences of hearing Eva’s playing and receiving her music with joy.

More will be said later. We will recognize Eva’s time with us on August 27. As for now, we wish Eva and Wesley a happy retirement beginning in September! (Please also read Todd’s tribute to Eva on page 12.)

Special Thanks and Farewell to Rev. Steve Stone

Music Ministry . . . . . 10-12 Older Adults. . . . . . . 26-27 OLEC . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-35 Stewardship . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Youth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

We also bid farewell to Steve Stone. Two years ago, Steve joined our staff out of retirement to guide us in establishing a new expression of alternative worship. The design was to specifically attract persons who were not connecting to a traditional style worship or who did not have a relationship with Jesus Christ or any church. After two years and much growth, Prism is now established as the only service of its kind in our community. We have been able to surpass the hopes and expectations we had for the service, and we owe a debt of gratitude to Steve and his leadership. Steve brought a wealth of experience, knowledge, and passion to the work of starting Prism, and he now passes the baton of leadership of Prism to Rev. Mimi White. Steve celebrated his last Sunday leading Prism on July 30. We wish Steve and Mary a happy second retirement!

As Eva and Steve leave their staff positions with us, we leave them both with the blessing of the name of the Lord: The LORD bless you and keep you. the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you. the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.

Executive Minister Rev. Dr. Scott Alford | salford@germantownumc.org

Social media is all the rage, from Facebook to Twitter to Instagram to whatever else. Like in all things, it is important to approach social media as proper stewards and in ways that reflect who we are as a people of faith.

Last month I shared the first rule from Eric Seiberling’s “Three Simple Rules of Social Media,” which is Do no harm.

Below we explore the second of Seiberling’s rules. He writes: Rev. Dr. Scott Alford Executive Minister

Rule #2: Do good.

[Rueben] Job writes, “My desire to do good is in response to God’s invitation to follow Jesus, and it is in my control. I can determine to extend hospitality and goodness to all I meet.” Doing all the good we can means to engage others proactively in a way that “nourished goodness and strengthens community.” Assess every word and act to determine if it brings God’s grace and goodness to others.

Whether it is Facebook, Instagram or something else, social media very quickly embeds us in other people’s lives. How we engage online can have a profound effect on the people with whom we connect. Use social media to extend hospitality and goodness to all or to demonstrate God’s love to digital neighbors.

Whether engaging as an individual or as a representative of your church, think about every status update, comment or post as an outlet of “doing good.”

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Would you describe the post as “good”? Does it reflect God’s interest or your own self-interest or will? Does it serve the good of the community and those in it?

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Will it help God’s reign and fellow believers? How will those outside the church perceive it? How will people of different cultural or faith backgrounds receive it?

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Do you communicate effectively by asking questions and providing information?

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PRISM Rev. Mimi White | mwhite@germantownumc.org

Join us at Prism Sundays, 11:00 am Owings Life Enrichment Center

We are powerless over so many things in life, but there is no need to feel discouraged by that. Did you know we, as God’s Children, have access to God’s Power? It is ours for the asking.

Beginning Sunday, August 20, we at Prism will begin a series of messages to send us into Fall with a bang —

Rev. Mimi White

a New Power Series!

We will be discussing the incredible power available to us through gratitude, praise, our words, prayer, the name of Jesus, and of course, the power of Love.

Come discover places in the Bible you may have overlooked. You may have thought they did not apply to you today. Learn about all the tools God has equipped us with to not only survive in this world, but to thrive in it!

Join us on Sunday mornings at 11 am in the OLEC for this special message series, and be empowered together with us at Prism, as we close out our summer together and leap into a power-packed Fall!

Invite your friends and neighbors to come, too, because what we at Prism have going on for Jesus’ sake is about as special as Sunday mornings can get, and we don’t want anyone to miss out! We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

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Congregational Care Yolanda Toney | ytoney@germantownumc.org | 901-754-7216

Loneliness The U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy released a report in May of this year, titled "Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation." The report finds that even before the COVID-19 pandemic, about half of U.S. adults reported experiencing measurable levels of loneliness. And it warns that the physical consequences of poor connection can be devastating, including a 29% increased risk of heart disease; a 32% increased risk of stroke; and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia for older adults.

According to the Surgeon General, "In the last few decades, we've just lived through a dramatic pace of change. We move more, we change jobs more often, we are living with technology that has profoundly changed how we interact with each other and how we talk to each other. And you can feel lonely even if you have a lot of people around you, because loneliness is about the quality of your connections."

So, what can we do about loneliness?

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First, we take it to God. Ask God to draw near to us and embrace that connection.

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Read scripture. Scripture speaks to us differently at different times. Often, we find just the answer and/or comfort we need.

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Reach out to family, friends, join small groups. Don’t expect people to know how you feel. Unfortunately, we are all so wrapped up in our own lives, we don’t always take the time to check in on each other. Saying to someone that we need help makes us vulnerable, but sometimes being vulnerable and sharing our feelings can lead to connections with others who are experiencing what we are experiencing.

Here at Germantown United Methodist Church, there are a plethora of small groups and activities to choose from. (Bible studies, Sunday school classes, recreational opportunities at the OLEC like pickleball, the Brown Bag lunches, the XYZ group activities…etc.) Get involved. It’s good for your body, mind, and soul.

Data comes from NPR’s All Things Considered at npr.com.

“So deeply do we care for you that we are determined to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you have become very dear to us.”

1 Thessalonians 2:8

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Congregational Care Yolanda Toney | ytoney@germantownumc.org | 901-754-7216

Are you being called from the pews into the mission field?

Contact Susan Crowson, (901)758-6508 or scrowson@germantownumc.org.

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Flower Ministry - After worship, altar flowers are separated into small vases and delivered to homebound. Your time commitment is up to you.

Visits to Homebound - Occasionally you may be asked to visit those who are homebound or persons who may be ill.

Home Communion Ministry- On Communion Sunday, you will take Communion to assigned homebound.

Contact Ruth M. King, 901-233-7495 or ruthmking@bellsouth.net.

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Prayer Ministry - Join a team of volunteers who arrive 30-45 minutes before worship to pray throughout the church for all who enter the sanctuary before worship begins. The team also prays with the pastors. New members are welcome.

Contact Sue Myers, 901-756-7919 or joelmyers1@comcast.net.

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Monday Night Visits to First Time Visitors - Armed with fresh cookies, you will visit first time visitors. You may bake cookies, go on visits, or both.

Contact Yolanda Toney, 901-754-216, ytoney@germantownumc.org.

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Grief Ministry - Commit to stay in touch with a person who has suffered a close familial loss for a year. Regularity of contact would be determined by the person affected by the loss and you. Contact might include calls, notes, or visits.

Note/Card Writing Ministry - Once a month or less you will write notes to assigned persons. Adults, youth, and children may contribute to this ministry.

Calling Ministry -Monthly or bi-monthly (determined by you) you will call assigned persons to check in with them. These people may be ill, shut-ins, or may be absent from church for several Sundays.

Meal Ministry - Occasionally persons or families may appreciate a meal during a difficult time. You would make the meal or purchase a meal and deliver it.

Career Transition Team - An established group who aids those seeking employment or those who are underemployed. https://sites.google.com/a/ thectgroups.org/the-ct-groups/home/Groups/Memphis-CT.

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Missions Anne Fritz, Chairperson

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clarissafritz@att.net

Missions: What are they and how can you serve?

By Anne Fritz, Missions Committee Chair Natalie Adkinson, Director of Children’s Ministry, asked me to speak to the 5th and 6th graders attending Mission Camp on July 17. I’ve been thinking about what I’m going to say, and decided to share that with you, as I think we all need to consider what missions mean to us individually and to the church, and how best we can serve.

Paragraph 120 of the UMC Book of Discipline states that the mission of the church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Paragraph 121 articulates how we should make disciples – by proclaiming the good news of God’s grace and by exemplifying Jesus’ command to love God and neighbor, thus seeking the fulfillment of God’s reign and realm in the world. It then makes this bold statement, “Whenever United Methodism has had a clear sense of mission, God has used our Church to save persons, heal relationships, transform social structures, and spread scriptural holiness, thereby changing the world.” Wow! Isn’t this what the world needs now?

What is our mission?

My simpler definition of mission is that we are to demonstrate God’s love to the world in whatever way(s) we can – sometimes by using words, but perhaps more often, by our actions and deeds.

How can we show God’s love to a hurting world?

The first is the simplest – smile and greet everyone you see.

Show them the respect and dignity God has given to each human.

Sounds easy, right? But too often we are in a hurry or worried or frightened, and we forget this most basic act of kindness.

“If you are willing to get closer to people who are suffering you will find the power to change the world.” ~Bryan Stevenson

Second, get to know and understand the problems and challenges facing those who are poor, mentally or physically ill, homeless, grieving, or lonely. Bryan Stevenson, author of the book, Just Mercy, talks about the importance of proximity. “If you are willing to get closer to people who are suffering,” he says, “you will find the power to change the world.”

Third, take inventory of your talents, interests, and experiences and find out where you would like to make a difference. The GUMC Missions Committee supports 25 different missions, all of whom are worthy and need your help. You’ve heard about some of them through the Mission Moments this year: Reelfoot Rural Ministries, Jacob’s Ladder, Golden Cross Senior Ministry, 6

Continued...

Missions Anne Fritz, Chairperson

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clarissafritz@att.net

...Continued Project Transformation, and the MidSouth Food Bank. In the future, you’ll hear from Hannah’s Hope, Church Health, Alternative Christmas, and Room in the Inn. If you have questions about these or the other ministries supported by GUMC, feel free to call/text (901.409.3477) or email me at: (annefritz214@gmail.com.)

I’m writing this on Sunday, July 9, after hearing Rev. Scott Alford’s sermon on “Accept the Call,” in which he points out that God calls every one of us into a ministry of some kind, based on our interests and our talents. Like Jonah, we don’t get to pretend that we haven’t heard the call, even though it may be difficult or uncomfortable. In his benediction, he encouraged all of us, in our prayer and devotion, to ask “Where can I serve? What am I called to do?”

The service closed with the hymn, “The Summons”: Will you come and follow me if I but call your name?

Will you go where you don’t know and never be the same?

Will you let my love be shown, will you let my name be known, Will you let my life be grown in you and you in me?

Will you leave yourself behind if I but call your name?

Will you care for cruel and kind and never be the same?

Will you risk the hostile stare should your life attract or scare?

Will you let me answer prayer in you and you in me?

Will you let the blinded see if I but call your name?

Will you set the prisoners free and never be the same?

Will you kiss the leper clean and do such as this unseen, And admit to what I mean in you and you in me?

Will you love the “you” you hide if I but call your name?

Will you quell the fear inside and never be the same?

Will you use the faith you’ve found to reshape the world around Through my sight and touch and sound in you and you in me?

Lord, your summons echoes true when I but call your name!

Let me turn and follow you and never be the same.

In your company I’ll go where your love and footsteps show.

Thus I’ll move and live and grow in you and you in me.

I hope in the next few weeks and months, we each will find the answers to those questions so we can continue to transform the world.

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Missions Anne Fritz, Chairperson

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clarissafritz@att.net

Alturas Youth Camp and Kid’s Camp Costa Rica

First, our Alturas Youth went on their first weekend campout to a Christian Youth Camp that involved learning about Christ through conferences and team-building activities, including rock climbing (leap of faith), canopy, river play, etc. We have seen much growth in Christ in our adolescents, and we were so blessed to have ALL five of our Alturas GRADUATES serving as STAFF mentors of our Alturas Kids to give back to Alturas.

Second, our Alturas little kids went to Kid’s camp the first weekend in July, and they were overjoyed to do rallies, field games, and of course, swimming. Both groups expressed thanks for being able to eat all they wanted at camp.

Alturas Missions wants to thank GUMC for your continual support that you have blessed us with! To God be the glory for all the lives GUMC has changed forever!

For more information on Alturas Ministries visit www.alturascostarica.org or scan here with a mobile device .

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Stewardship In an article on the Full Focus website (“5 Research-Backed Benefits of Making Generosity a Habit”), Michael Hyatt writes…

Like expressing gratitude, there’s a lot of research demonstrating that generosity enhances our quality of life.

Here are 5 ways generosity gives back to us: Generosity makes us healthy. Chronic high blood pressure kills millions every year. But one study found generosity actually reduced blood pressure as much as medicine and exercise. And it’s not just blood pressure. Generosity also lowers the risk of dementia, reduces anxiety and depression, improves chronic pain management, and more. “If you were somehow able to package this into a compound, you’d be a billionaire overnight,” said Stephen G. Post of Stony Brook University School of Medicine.

Generosity makes us happy. Giving our time and money to others gives us an emotional boost. Why? According to researcher Christian Smith it’s because feeling good is a product of doing good. It’s built into our neurochemistry. Giving triggers feel-good chemicals like endorphins, dopamine, and oxytocin. And it’s true across cultural and economic lines, too, according to a Harvard Business School study. It’s just part of being human.

Generosity lowers our stress. We don’t think of Scrooge as a mellow guy, do we? Here’s why. It turns out being stingy can actually raise our stress levels. After hooking people up to heart monitors, researchers found that when they felt they were giving too little in a transaction it actually drove up their stress. Being generous, on the other hand, kept stress down. It’s like the Golden Rule in action.

Generosity improves our relationships. In a study of generosity and its effect in marriage, researchers found that the recipient of generosity expressed high levels of marital satisfaction, but so did the giver. “[P]articipants’ reports of behaving in a generous fashion toward their spouse were linked to their own reports of marital quality,” said the researchers. “The extension of generosity toward the spouse was positively related to their own reports of marital satisfaction…”

Generosity extends our lives. All this adds up to longer life-expectancy. In fact, one study of 2,000 people in Marin, California, found volunteering dramatically reduced mortality rates. “Subjects who volunteered for two or more causes had a 63 percent lower rate of mortality than people who didn't volunteer during the study period,” said one report.

(A link to the full article… https://fullfocus.co/habit-of-generosity/ )

Finance Jim Dodge, Finance Chair % ACTUAL YTD to ANNUAL BUDGET

GUMC BUDGETED FINANCIAL SUMMARY as of June 31, 2023

ACTUAL YTD

OVER/UNDER BUDGET YTD BUDGET

TOTAL INCOME

1,429,101.02

1,466,816.92

(37,715.90) 3,235,932.00

44.16%

TOTAL EXPENSES

1,530,452.48

1,580,390.37

(49,937.89) 3,235,932.00

47.30%

NET INCOME OVER EXPENSE

(101,351.46)

(113,573.45)

12,221.99

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ANNUAL BUDGET

Music Ministry Rev. Todd Wilson, Minister of Music | twilson@germantownumc.org | 901-754-7216

Fall Brings New Beginnings Psalm 127:2 speaks of rest: “for he gives sleep to his beloved.”

Beloved, the time of resting is nearly complete. The music ministry program year is upon us. We are blessed to offer multiple ensembles for your participation. I highlight children’s music opportunities here.

You already know how important music is for a person's social, physical, and cognitive development, but being in a church choir also provides the opportunity for your child to learn more about God through music, and to serve the church by actively participating in the worship experience.

Our choir rehearsals will begin Sunday, September 10 at 5:00 pm. Choirs meet in the Children’s Education Wing on the second floor. Just walk down the hall past the Sanctuary…turn right at the end, and you will be in the right place.

Here’s a description of the three choirs: Cherub - directed by Mary Groh - Meets 5:00-5:45 pm • 3 years old (must be 3 years old by August 15) through transition and junior kindergarten.

• Sings at the Christmas program and the end of the year program (an adult comes with the child to rehearsal).

Alleluia - directed by Peggy Warner - Meets 5:00-6:00 pm • Kindergarten through 2nd graders • Sings frequently in Worship, sings in the Christmas program, and performs in a musical at the end of the year with the Hosanna choir.

Hosanna - directed by Libby Schielke - Meets 5:00-6:00 pm • 3rd through 5th graders • Sings frequently in Worship and in the Christmas program.

• Learning to participate fully in worship will be a goal of this choir.

We extend our desire to continue the habit of regular attendance. This helps us maintain fundamental musical and spiritual development of our GUMC children.

We’re looking forward to an exciting year with your children singers! If you have any questions, please contact any one of us.

Libby - (libby5959@att.net) Mary - (mgroh@germantownumc.org) Peggy - (peggywarner51@gmail.com)

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Music Ministry Rev. Todd Wilson, Minister of Music | twilson@germantownumc.org | 901-754-7216 Come, Labor On! Says the hymn.

Taking pleasure in our efforts is a good and joyful thing. It is part of the ministry of music in the church. Yes, we work at it, thus the weekly rehearsals. We also strive for fellowship, prayer, and understanding of the role of music in worship.

Our chancel choir is one avenue of participation that I pray you’ll consider. Having gifts and not sharing them isn’t part of our Christian journey. We know from James 2:26 that faith without works is dead. This means that we must put our words to work. The action is stepping out in faith and beginning to fulfill your spiritual gifts. If you can sing, why not share that gift with others? We begin rehearsals on August 16 at 6:30 pm. I pray you’ll join us. Hit me up if you have any questions.

Perhaps an anecdote or two from the late great Robert Shaw will help.           

Those who sing pray twice.

If we plow the field the Holy Spirit might descend.

The problem comes when the Lord asks you to shout in tune.

Great choral singing depends on the absolute integrity of each line.

It’s more fun to sing in tune than out of tune.

When we say crescendo, do it with a sense of ensemble. Don’t squirt your voice like a tube of toothpaste.

The quality of tone is also an atmosphere of the human spirit.

The simple music separates the artist from the goats.

The melody is the tension of what happens between changes of pitch.

Breathe in the time in which you are leaving the note, not the time you are approaching it.

Just to sing in tune is only the beginning, but it’s one hell of a beginning.

Testimony Youth Choir With summer break ending soon and the return of school upon us, now is a great time to consider your Sunday evening plans! Testimony Youth Choir resumes on Sunday evenings! Our first meeting will be on Sunday, September 10 at 5 pm. in the choir room. Youth are always welcome to participate in both short term and long term commitments! We rehearse weekly for about an hour, sing approximately once each month for a morning worship service, present special music during seasonal opportunities such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, Lent and Easter, and will be taking a trip to Lake Junaluska in summer of 2024! (For real this time!

Dates are set for June 24-28 and ALL worship arts members are invited to attend: youth choir, children's choir, adult choir, handbell choir, and even theatre and liturgical dance in worship!)

We would LOVE to continue to grow through our music, worship, and fellowship. We hope you will consider joining us. Please feel free to reach out to Tim Wise, Testimony Director via email at twise@germantownumc.org.

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Music Ministry Rev. Todd Wilson, Minister of Music | twilson@germantownumc.org | 901-754-7216

Eva McPeters (Assoc. Director of Music Ministries and Organist) Retiring after 32 years of Service A Tribute by Rev. Todd Wilson In the spring of 2018, I began the application process for the Music Director position at Germantown UMC. Beyond the normal things you do, resume and references for example, I had a few meaningful conversations with Eva McPeters. To put a point on it, I wanted to know if Eva planned to continue at GUMC for a while longer. At one lunch she said, "I think a couple more years, for sure." That statement put me at ease and allowed me to proceed. I'm grateful that Eva has done much more than stick around for a couple of years.

Eva's expertise and experience go beyond the notes on the page. Eva has offered valuable spiritual, musical and liturgical guidance, and done so with an understanding of what GUMC needs and desires. She knows well the nature and history of worship and music here, and taught me plenty on those matters. She's also allowed me to stumble and find my way. Guidance shared and space to grow are gifts of leadership, and I'm thankful for Eva sharing those gifts with me.

All this to say that Eva's time at GUMC is coming to a close. After thirty-two years of faithful service Eva has made the decision to retire. I know that you'll want to celebrate her in the days ahead. We can remember fondly the music Eva has helped create and share, and I believe Eva would want us to remember our role as congregational musicians and keep the song rolling! Eva, we salute your years of service and pray for nothing but the full love and joy of God to find you, and your family, in the years ahead. Eva’s last Sunday with us will be August 27.

Churchwide Bridge for All! Fridays 10am-2pm |

Rm 240

Bridge is not just for older adults. All ages are invited! Beat the heat and come play Bridge with us! We meet at 10 am on Fridays in room 240 (The Huddle), near the Sanctuary.

You don’t need to be a member of the church, you don’t need a partner, and you don’t need to make a reservation. Just bring a snack if you’d like – we’ll provide the coffee.

Contact Flo Seward 901-755-0050 or fkseward@gmail.com for more information.

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Churchwide

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Churchwide Each month we recognize a volunteer or volunteers who make an impact by selflessly sharing their time and talents for the betterment of our church and community.

Homebound Flower Ministry Did you know that the flowers in the Sanctuary for Sunday morning worship serve a dual purpose? Not only do they enhance worship each Sunday, but they also benefit the Elder Care Health Ministry. The arrangements are “repurposed” by volunteers into about 6 smaller floral vases after church on Sunday.

Monday morning, other volunteers deliver the flowers to members who are recovering from illness, are homebound, or are living in assisted living or skilled care facilities.

The Elder Care Health Ministry has a long tradition of “gifting” older members with a flower delivery for those who can no longer be active on a regular basis, but who have served the church faithfully in healthier and more youthful times past. They receive a visit to cheer and encourage and let them know they are remembered as a part of the church family.

Members who “repurpose” the Sanctuary flowers are: Cecilia Conine, Nina Gaddy, Cynthia McMullin, Beverly Rhoads, and Bob Stoudt.

Members who deliver flowers are: Stephanie Adams, Gretchen Blair, Betty Duke, Karon Farrow, Kay Lindamood, Carole Kiser, Carla McCrary, Lea Smith, and Bart Watt.

Thank you to our flower ministry team!

If you would like to become a part of this enjoyable ministry of arranging or delivering flowers approximately once a month, please contact Susan Crowson, Elder Care Health Ministry at scrowson@germantownumc.org or at (901)758-6508.

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Churchwide GUMC Welcomes Four New Staff Members Susan Crowson joins us as the Director of Elder Care Ministries. She is a certified Dementia Practitioner and Aging Life Care Manager and has served as an Associate Chaplain at Baptist Desoto Hospital. Her genuine compassion and experience in providing pastoral and bereavement care to patients and their families will be of great benefit to the care GUMC seeks to give to our members.

She has been married to her husband for forty years and they have three children and nine grandchildren. Susan is a native Memphian and has a Bachelor of Architecture from UT Knoxville.

Lawrence Monahan assumes the role of Director of Communications, a brand-new position in our church. With a degree in graphic design and experience in both public relations and marketing, she understands social media, brochures, and various means of print and digital media. She is geared to enhance our internal communications and to share the GUMC story throughout the community. She is a native Memphian with one brother who currently lives in Santa Barbara, California, and will have been married to her husband James for two years this August. Ask her sometime about the many adventures she has been on!

Jimmie Fields joins our maintenance team. He spent several years of experience working at Christ Church working as a facilities/maintenance technician and custodian. He knows the unique needs of a church and is already working hard setting up rooms, repairing broken items, and doing many other tasks necessary for the upkeep of our buildings and grounds.

He and his wife have four kids and he loves great food!

Will Suggs recently moved back to Memphis from Kannapolis, NC, where he worked for the Kannapolis Intimidators baseball team as a locker room manager and chef. He also spent several years in housekeeping for the YMCA there. His specialty is floor care, and he has already made a good impact as a new member of our housekeeping staff. He has many brothers and sisters who live in the surrounding area, from Memphis, Mississippi, and Arkansas. He graduated from Ambassador Christian College with an associate degree in religion.

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Churchwide CHURCH & SOCIETY SPEAKERS’ SERIES U.S. Attorney Kevin Ritz to Speak on Justice & Civil Rights August 20, 9:30-10:00 am | Fellowship Hall On August 20, Kevin Ritz, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, will speak about how the U.S. Department of Justice upholds the rule of law and keeps Americans safe. He also will share his perspectives on justice, mercy, accountability, and civil rights.

Sworn in as United States Attorney on Sept. 28, 2022, Ritz is the chief federal law enforcement officer in West Tennessee. A Memphian who has dedicated his entire career to federal public service, he was an Assistant United States Attorney in the Western District of Tennessee for seventeen years. He started in the narcotics unit prosecuting drug, firearm, robbery, carjacking, and other offenses, and later held various leadership positions in the office, including serving as Appellate Chief and Special Counsel for over a decade.

Kevin G. Ritz U.S. Attorney

Before his tenure in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Ritz clerked for Judge Julia S. Gibbons of the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. Between college and law school, he worked for the United States Department of State. He was an Adjunct Professor at the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law from 2008-2016.

He received his J.D. from the University of Virginia, his M.S. in Foreign Service from Georgetown University, and his B.A. with High Distinction from the University of Virginia, where he was a Jefferson Scholar. He is a product of the Memphis City Schools system. He and his family live in midtown Memphis and attend Idlewild Presbyterian Church.

The Department of Justice has a long history of involvement in civil rights. Because of the increased litigation in the aftermath of the Civil War, Congress created the Department in 1870. It was given control over all federal law enforcement, and all criminal prosecutions and civil suits in which the United States had an interest. Of the challenges facing the new department, none was more prominent than assuring the civil and voting rights of African Americans during Reconstruction. The Department used its new resources and power to prosecute members of the Ku Klux Klan for their violence and aggression against African Americans, terrorizing them from voting, running for public office, or serving on juries.

Their efforts were successful, with violence decreasing in the early 1870s.

President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Civil Rights Act of 1957 on September 9, to ensure that all Americans could exercise their right to vote. Following the Act, the Department’s Civil Rights Division was created on December 9.

Ritz will speak on Sunday, August 20 from 9:30-10:30 am in the Fellowship Hall. All are invited to attend.

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Churchwide

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Churchwide Employment Opportunity!

Looking for part-time employment? Enjoy caring for young children?

Germantown United Methodist Preschool (GUMP) is looking for four aftercare workers to meet the demand for the 2023/2024 school year. Candidates must be 18 years old and able to work Mon-Fri 2:00/2:30-5:30pm. $16/hr. Work days follow the GMSD school district calendar.

If you know anyone who might be a good fit, please have them contact GUMP Director, Sarah Sutton (ssutton@germantownumc.org.)

Germantown United Methodist Preschool (GUMP) Sarah Sutton, Director | ssutton@germantownumc.org Germantown United Methodist Preschool has been busy preparing for another exciting year! GUMP will welcome our families for Meet the Teacher on Friday, August 11. We look forward to the start of the 23/24 School Year beginning August 14 for Phase-In Week. During this week, we have half of our students come each day as they transition into a new class. This helps our friends get to know their new teachers and daily routine with more individual attention. We are ready to hit the ground running as we begin a year of learning and fun!

This summer, GUMP offered four one-week camps for our current students ages 2-6. These camps were full of fun activities planned according to each week’s theme. Teachers and students alike had a great time! While our friends were at camp, vacation, or home for the summer, preschool staff was working on getting things in order for the upcoming school year. This includes deep cleaning and organizing classrooms, ordering supplies, planning In-service and making enhancements to our building. This year we were able to add an additional classroom due to the high demand for placement at GUMP. We also have provided tours to share all the amazing aspects of our play-based preschool and enrolled new friends to our school.

Before school begins, our teachers and staff will come together for In-service. This year’s In-service includes presentations by many wonderful professionals to help us grow in our abilities to serve and prepare our students. Some of our staff will renew their CPR and First Aid Training, as all of our teachers maintain current CPR/First Aid Certifications. GUMP is prepared for an exciting 23/24 school year, and we absolutely cannot wait to have our sweet little friends back in our classrooms.

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Adult Education Mary Groh, Director | mgroh@germantownumc.org | 901-754-7216

Women’s Bible Study ABIDE – A Study of 1, 2, & 3 John Wednesdays, August 30 - November 8 (skipping Sept. 27) 9:45-11:45 am, via Zoom; Cost: $28.00 Facilitator: Chesley Porteous | chesleyporteous@gmail.com How can we hold onto assurance of our faith? How can we discern the truth from a lie?

How can we know God loves us? In this 10-session study of 1, 2, and 3 John, author, Jen Wilkin will help us discover how the apostle John's words call Christians to recall a great salvation and to abide in the truth. He reminds an early church facing division, deception, and doubt to hold fast to what they know and to live like they believe it. And John reminds us as well.

Register online at www.germantownumc.org or scan this code with a mobile device:

Monday Monthly Book Group 4th Monday of each Monday 10:00 am | Room 338 There is no need to register, just purchase the book (or check-out from the library) and join us for a lively discussion!

August 28: The Ride of Her Life by Elizabeth Letts

October 23: The Nature of Fragile Things by Susan Meissner

September 25: The Yellow Fever Revenge

by Jackie Flaum

For questions, please contact Mary Groh.

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November 27: The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams

Membership Steve Jackson Germantown United Methodist Church welcomed Steve Jackson into membership on Sunday, June 25 at our Prism worship service. He joined by transfer of his membership from a sister United Methodist Church in the Memphis area.

When asked what about Germantown UMC made him want to become a part of our church community, he replied, “The Prism worship service. I love hearing Rev. Mimi White and Rev. Steve Stone preach.”

Stephon Sumpter-Bey Germantown United Methodist Church welcomed Stephon Sumpter-Bey into membership on Sunday, June 25 at our Prism worship service. He joined by Reaffirmation of Faith.

When asked what about Germantown UMC made him want to become a part of our church community, he replied, “Steve Jackson introduced me to Pastor Steve Stone in 2012 at Heartsong UMC when I needed prayer and help when my mom passed. Ever since then I’ve been around different churches and church members. When Steve and I started coming here, it just felt like home.”

Rev. Deborah Thompson Germantown United Methodist Church welcomed Rev. Deborah Thompson into membership on Sunday, June 25 at our Prism worship service. Rev. Thompson is a retired United Methodist Minister in the Wisconsin Annual Conference and is placing her conference membership in affiliation with GUMC. When asked what about Germantown United Methodist Church made her want to become a part of our church community, she replied: “I moved to Germantown to be close to family. GUMC is the nearest church to my residence. I came to visit and have enjoyed being included in the life of the church.”

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Membership Fran Anthony Germantown United Methodist Church welcomed Fran Anthony into membership on Sunday, June 26 at our Prism worship service. She joined by transfer of her membership from a sister United Methodist Church in the Memphis area.

When asked what about Germantown UMC made her want to become a part of our church community, she replied, “My husband and I attended a United Methodist Church when our now-grown boys were little. We moved from the Cordova area and, sadly, stopped attending church. When I saw that Pastor Steve Stone was beginning a new worship service at GUMC called “Prism,” my husband and I talked about visiting, but we just never made the effort. My husband died last year, and an old friend and member of GUMC, Glenna Rodgers, attended my husband’s funeral. She invited me to Prism numerous times, and I finally went. Prism feels like ‘home’ for me now, and I am in prayer that my youngest son might join me at Prism one day. Prism is part of my healing.”

Kathy and Mark Berner Germantown United Methodist Church welcomed Kathy and Mark Berner into membership on Sunday, June 25 at our Prism worship service. They joined by Reaffirmation of Faith.

When asked what about Germantown UMC made them want to become a part of our church community, they replied, “We were interested in Prism. We enjoy the casual atmosphere, music, and sermons that help us in the following week.”

Coffee with the Pastors Sunday, August 6, 9:30-10:30 am Are you thinking about joining GUMC but would like to know more about the church?

Join us during the Sunday school hour to meet our pastors and learn about the beliefs and traditions of the United Methodist Church and get to know GUMC a bit better. You will also get to connect with fellow GUMC worshippers and learn about opportunities to serve, connect, and grow!

Please contact Mary Groh at mgroh@germanotwnumc.org if you are interested in attending.

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Germantown United Women in Faith (GUWF) Gina Bartz, President

|

women@germantownumc.org

Blessing of the Babies is a cherished tradition at GUMC. If you have a baby, grandchild, or greatgrandchild born after August 2022, please send a photo, the baby’s name, date of birth, and parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents’ names to Yolanda Toney at ytoney@germantownumc.org

by August 25.

Your baby will be blessed at the GUWF luncheon on Tuesday, September 12, will receive a blessing certificate, and will be included in a video compilation. We would love to have your little one be a part of this darling celebration.

Fall/Winter GUWF Children’s Consignment Sale is around the corner!

Shop Friday and Saturday, August 25-26 It's that time of year! Clean out the closet, rummage through the attic, and sort through the garage for children's clothing, furniture, toys, baby equipment, and more. GUWF Children's Consignment Sale registration is now open! Visit ConsignGermantown.com to review guidelines and details. All proceeds from this sale benefit GUWF missions.

It's a 34-year tradition of community outreach!

Can't consign? We love donations! Coordinate with us in advance of the sale to donate your gently used items up to two weeks before the sale. We will price and tag each item, with 100% of the sale price going to local missions! You will receive an early consignor shopping pass in return, along with a thank you letter as your receipt for tax purposes. Please be sure your donated items have an approximate value of more than $40. Email info@ConsignGermantown.com for more information.

Continued...

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Germantown United Women in Faith (GUWF) Gina Bartz, President

|

women@germantownumc.org

...Continued

We also need volunteer help and have many shifts available! We’ll have an especially big need for volunteers on Saturday afternoon. Since Prism uses the OLEC on Sundays, we will need lots of hands to help us sort through unsold merchandise and get the gym back in order. Volunteers who work at least four hours get to shop early at the Thursday pre-sale event.

Sign up online here to help: https://bit.ly/GUWFConsignVolunteers Or scan QR Code:

Our consignment sale serves as a wonderful outreach to the community, drawing people into our church from all over the Mid-South as consignors, shoppers, and volunteers. Join us and help make a difference.

Thank you for your support!

IMPORTANT DATES: Consignor registration deadline/inventory entry Tuesday, August 22 at midnight Refer to the website for complete information about accepted merchandise and consignor instructions.

Consignor Drop off Wednesday, August 23, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm and Thursday, August 24, 8:00 am - 1:00 pm Pre-sale Thursday, August 24, 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm Volunteers who work eight or more hours may shop at 5:30 pm. Those who volunteer four or more hours may shop at 6:00 pm. Consignors may shop at 6:30 pm.

Public Sale Friday, August 25, 8:00 am - 3:00 pm Public Half-price Sale Friday, August 25, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Saturday, August 26, 8:00 am - 1:00 pm Consignor Pick-up Saturday, August 26, 6:00-8:00 pm

Consign

Donate

Volunteer 23

Shop

Germantown United Women in Faith (GUWF) Gina Bartz, President

|

women@germantownumc.org

September Speaker Luncheon Sept 12, 11:30 am | Fellowship Hall All women are invited to join us for a catered meal, warm fellowship, and an inspirational message from Cathy Pope at our GUWF September Speaker Luncheon on September 12, 2023, at 11:30 am in the Mike Wilson Fellowship Hall.

Cathy Pope has served as the President and CEO of the Mid-South Food Bank since August 2019. Her previous positions include President and CEO of Feeding the Gulf Coast and Executive Director for Meals on Wheels of Middle Georgia. She has nonprofit experience with the Susan G. Komen Foundation as well as the Fuller Center for Housing in Macon, Georgia.

Cathy currently holds numerous positions on volunteer boards. She is a member of Feeding America’s Policy Engagement and Advocacy Committee (PEAC), where she works to address domestic hunger and related issues with policymakers. Additionally, Cathy serves as Secretary for the Central Region Association of Food Banks, representing 96 of the 200 food banks affiliated with Feeding America.

She also serves on BancorpSouth’s Corporate Community Advisory Council and is a member of the Safety Net Collaborative and the Food Insecurity and Accessibility Collaborative in Memphis, Tennessee.

Cathy has a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Georgia Southwestern State University, a Master of Arts in Political Science from Georgia State University, and an MBA in Finance from Texas Christian University.

Please join us as we learn about the Mid-South Food Bank’s mission to change lives by eliminating hunger in the Mid-South. The organization’s commitment to serving others is a wonderful example of doing “Everything in Love.”

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College Ministry

Lauren Wright Hobbs Nursing Scholarship Awarded to Lauren Elizabeth Hopper

Lauren Hopper

Lauren Wright Hobbs

The Emmaus Class is proud to announce that we have chosen Lauren Hopper to receive the 2023 nursing scholarship. The scholarship was established to honor Lauren Wright Hobbs, who loved serving others in the nursing profession. She lost her battle with cancer at the age of 29 in October of 2013. She left a wealth of family and friends who will always remember her with love and happy memories.

Lauren Hopper is in her third year at The University of Arkansas pursuing a degree in Nursing. After her freshman year, she applied to and was among those accepted into the Nursing School, focusing now on the classes catering to the nursing profession. This summer, she is studying abroad at the American University in Rome, Italy. In October of this year, she will officially receive her white coat and begin clinicals in Fayetteville, Arkansas hospitals. Next summer, Lauren plans to apply for an internship in a Memphis hospital as she continues her pursuit of becoming a trauma or ICU nurse. Lauren has applied for, and received, this scholarship each of her three years in school.

Lauren Hopper grew up in our church and was active in our MYF for her teenage years. She has served in our Service Over Self outings, as well as breakfast for the homeless, and Room In The Inn. Lauren believes that these experiences taught her to fall in love with caring for others and doing so with the love of Christ. GUMC gave her the guidance and support through these many activities to help her choose the path of nursing.

This scholarship is awarded annually to a member of GUMC who is pursuing a degree in nursing.

Donations can be made at any time to this scholarship fund by writing your check to GUMC with ‘Lauren Wright Hobbs Scholarship’ in the memo line. Thanks so very much to those who have already donated to this scholarship in Lauren’s name.

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Older Adults Luci Cromer, Chair | 901-755-0803 | luci2@comcast.net

Learn About CrimeStoppers at the September Brown Bag Lunch!

We are all familiar with calling 528-CASH, but do you know what happens when you call that number or why you should call it? CrimeStoppers started with a holdup in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1976. Fast forward to 1981 and a Memphis City Council member hearing about the success of a 24-hour anonymous tip hotline providing cash rewards to citizens providing information leading to more arrests. Buddy Chapman, the sheriff in Memphis formed a team to launch a CrimeStoppers program which is now viewed as one of the three most successful citizen-tips crime fighting programs in the U.S. David Wayne Brown, Executive Director, will tell us what is involved, why it is so successful, what agencies are included, and the work of CrimeStoppers in the community at the September Brown Bag Lunch Series, an adventure in learning sponsored by the Older Adult Council.

TOPIC: “CrimeStoppers of Memphis and Shelby County: Preventing Crime by Catching Felons” SPEAKER: David Wayne Brown, Executive Director of CrimeStoppers of Memphis and Shelby County WHERE: Mike Wilson Fellowship Hall WHEN: September 1, 2023. Program starts at 11 am; lunch is at Noon.

COST: FREE—the church will supply beverages.

RESERVATIONS: No reservations are needed. Just bring your sack lunch and enjoy the program and the fellowship.

QUESTIONS? Call Luci Cromer, 755-0803, or Susan Crowson, 758-6508

XYZ’s Tour Folk Art Exhibit at The Dixon in September!

American Perspectives: Highlights from the American Folk Art Museum presents 70 works of art, by self-taught artists, from this premier repository of work in New York City. This exhibition includes a diverse range of works from the colonial era through present day that offer a glimpse at assemblage, needlework, painting, pottery, quilts, and sculpture highlighting themes such as nationhood, freedom, community, imagination, opportunity, and legacy. Four conceptual units— Founders, Travelers, Philosophers, and Seekers—highlight the varying perspectives conveyed by the exhibition. After our docent-led tour, we will eat lunch in the Auditorium at the Dixon.

WHERE: Dixon Gallery and Gardens WHEN: Friday, September 22, 2023 COST: $3 cost plus lunch on your own.

DEPARTURE: 9:45 am from OLEC parking lot. (Be there by 9:30 am.)

RESERVATIONS: Call Luci Cromer, 755-0803, Gretchen Blair, 755-0797, or Garnet Brenneman, 754-3711. You must make your reservation before paying.

DEADLINE FOR MONEY and RESERVATIONS: Tuesday, August 22

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Older Adults Luci Cromer, Chair | 901-755-0803 | luci2@comcast.net

XYZs Hear Sweet Caroline: Neil Diamond Tribute in October!

For over 35 years, Jay White has brought the music and charismatic stage presence of American music legend Neil Diamond to countless crowds. A lifelong fan himself, Jay White has received praise from Neil Diamond, even appearing with him on the Stages DVD Box Set. With music like “Cherry, Cherry,” “America,” and “Song Sung Blue,” this show provides the quintessential Neil Diamond concert experience, with the same energy and artistry Neil delivered over his incredible 50-year career, close to home.

For a preview of this show, Google Jay White Tribute to Neil Diamond – You Tube.

WHERE: Bartlett Performing Arts and Conference Center WHEN: Saturday, October 7, 2023 COST: $30 per person includes transportation and reserved seats.

DEPARTURE: 1:45 pm from OLEC parking lot.

RESERVATIONS: Call Luci Cromer, 755-0803, Gretchen Blair, 755-0797, or Garnet Brenneman, 754-3711. You must make your reservation before paying.

DEADLINE FOR MONEY and RESERVATIONS: Thursday, September 7

.

Our Handy Helpers are waiting for your call…

Summer is here, and the Handy Helpers ministry team is waiting to hear from you. If you are a GUMC member over 60 years of age, have a hard time physically keeping up with minor home repairs or maintenance because you are ill or incapacitated, and have homeowner’s liability insurance, there is a group of volunteers ready to assist you. Services are provided without labor charges, but the cost of the materials used is to be paid by the person receiving the service. Handy Helpers can do light carpentry, plumbing, electrical repairs, routine outdoor maintenance, and computer trouble-shooting. To put in a job request, please contact the Handy Helpers Coordinators, Ron or Nina Gaddy, 754-1238.

Friday Bridge Group Has Openings for New Members!

The weekly Friday Bridge Group meets in the Huddle from 10 am-2 pm for party bridge and fellowship. No partners are needed; just bring a sack lunch or a potluck dish to share. Contact Flo Seward, 755-0050 for more information. Do you need bridge lessons or a refresher course? Contact Flo Seward, and she will help you. Park in the East parking lot (Germantown Road side of the building) and go to the entrance under the portico. Press the button on the speaker box, and someone will buzz you into the building.

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Children’s Ministry Natalie Adkinson, Director | nadkinson@germantownumc.org Callie Beaver, Assoc. Director, Elem. | cbeaver@germantownumc.org Janelle Crist, Assoc. Director, Nursery | jcrist@germantownumc.org

Third Grade Bibles Our Third Graders will be presented with Bibles during all three worship services on September 24.

If you have a third grader, you should have received an email asking for information about your child’s Bible to be imprinted. If you did not receive an email, please contact Callie Beaver at cbeaver@germantownumc.org. The deadline to turn in your 3rd grader’s information is Monday, August 14.

Also, our Third Grade Bible Retreat is Friday, September 22. This highly anticipated evening event includes dinner, songs and worship, and fun Bible games for our third graders. Registration and details are online at germantownumc.org.

Worship Reminder We hope that you will bring your Elementary students (and younger children too if you wish) to worship with you each week at our 8:30 am or 11:00 am Traditional Services in the Sanctuary or 11:00 am Prism Service in OLEC. Remember that children are always welcome in our services!

For our traditional services, we have children’s bulletins and worship bags in the cabinet on the east side of the Narthex. For Prism, we have worship bags on the back table in the OLEC gym.

Please return your worship bag to the bin after the service. The Hamilton Nursery is open during all worship services for children who have not yet entered Kindergarten.

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Children’s Ministry Natalie Adkinson, Director | nadkinson@germantownumc.org Todd Wilson, Director of Music | twilson@germantownumc.org Donna Haley, Hospitality Committee Chair | dmhaley_99@yahoo.com | 901-487-8205 Callie Beaver, Assoc. Director, Elem. | cbeaver@germantownumc.org Janelle Crist, Assoc. Director, Nursery | jcrist@germantownumc.org

Mission Camp Recap During Mission Camp in July, our fifth and sixth graders participated in a variety of on and off campus service project opportunities. They started the week by visiting the Mid-South Food Bank where they sorted and packed diapers and pullups to be distributed to families in need. The kids packed a total of 6750 diapers for the MidSouth Diaper Bank!

Alise Davis spoke to the students about the Room in the Inn (RITI) facility in downtown Memphis. She presented safe ways to serve our homeless populations. The group then visited Dollar Tree to purchase cleaning supplies for RITI. The students spent several hours organizing, decluttering, and cleaning The Cottage which serves as GUMC’s RITI location.

Anne Fritz, chair of GUMC’s missions committee, gave a presentation about the different organizations our church supports. Because GUMC partners with Project Transformation, we made a special trip to Centenary UMC to read, play games, and host an ice cream party for the kids in their summer reading program.

Barbara Schanson and Beverly Rhoads spoke about our Older & Aging Adult Ministry at GUMC. The students discovered ways they could help the elderly. They also learned about the different obstacles that older adults face daily.

Although storms and power outages added some extra challenges to the week, this camp proved to be a heart-filling event, as always. We can’t wait to do it again next summer!

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Children’s Ministry Natalie Adkinson, Director | nadkinson@germantownumc.org Callie Beaver, Assoc. Director, Elem. | cbeaver@germantownumc.org Janelle Crist, Assoc. Director, Nursery | jcrist@germantownumc.org

Sunday School Teachers Needed The new school year is upon us! As our children return to their regular schedules, we are still in need of a few adults to serve as mentors/teachers for our 2023-2024 Elementary Sunday School program. We rely on adult volunteers to lead small group activities. It’s fun, rewarding, and easy! Scripted lessons are provided, along with all supplies. All elementary children begin Sunday mornings in the Huddle for a large group lesson. We then proceed to individual classrooms where teachers reinforce the lesson with engaging activities. Hesitant to commit to teaching every Sunday? Some teachers prefer to split the responsibilities with another individual.

If you would like more information or are interested in serving, please contact Natalie Adkinson or Callie Beaver.

Why be a Mentor/Teacher? Parents, being a Sunday School teacher is a great way to: • • • • •

Serve the church by committing your time and talent.

Spend quality time with your child and get to know your child’s classmates.

Show your child that serving the church is a priority in your life (children learn by example).

Experience what your child is learning and be a part of his/her faith development.

Get better acquainted with other parents and volunteers at the church.

Promotion Sunday - Aug 6 All children and youth will promote to the next grade level on Sunday, August 6.

At this time, those children entering kindergarten will begin meeting in the Huddle on Sunday mornings. The rising sixth graders will move to Confirmation class at the OLEC. Other students will remain in their current area but move to the next grade level.

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Youth Chloe Granberry, Director of Youth Ministries | cgranberry@germantownumc.org

GUMC Youth spent the summer months serving others through mission work.

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Owings Life Enrichment Center (OLEC) Gordon Kelly, Director | gkelly@germantownumc.org Kimberly Marsh, Assistant Dir. | kmarsh@germantownumc.org

Fall Soccer Registration is Open!

The last day to register is August 17, so don’t miss out!

The cost is $125 dollars and includes team registration fee, uniform, and end of season trophy and pizza party. The 6-game season begins Saturday, Sept. 9. All games are on Saturdays and practices will be one night a week. Age groups are below: • • • • •

Junior Kindergarten - 4-Year-Olds (Coed, Boys, or Girls) Senior Kindergarten - 5-Year-Olds (Coed, Boys or Girls) 1st & 2nd Grade - 6 and 7-Year-Olds as of June 1, 2023 3rd & 4th Grade - 8 and 9-Year-Olds as of June 1, 2023 5th & 6th Grade - 10 and 11-Year-Olds as of June 1, 2023

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Owings Life Enrichment Center (OLEC) Gordon Kelly, Director | gkelly@germantownumc.org Kimberly Marsh, Assistant Dir. | kmarsh@germantownumc.org

Pickleball at the OLEC Mondays 12-3 pm | Tues - Fri 9-12 pm Two Dollar Tuesday and Thursday: everyone plays for only $2!

Monday, Wednesday and Friday: $3 for church members $5 for non-church members

Pickleball Lessons

Evening Pickleball!

We offer small group pickleball lessons with a licensed pickleball instructor for both members and guests.

Contact Dick Carruth at 901-210-5399

Come play pickleball Mon & Wed nights!

Mon & Wed nights from 5:30-7:30 pm $3 for church members $5 for guests

Fit 4 Baby Exercise specifically designed for expectant mothers.

Wed 6-7 pm in the OLEC dance room

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Owings Life Enrichment Center (OLEC) Gordon Kelly, Director | gkelly@germantownumc.org Kimberly Marsh, Assistant Dir. | kmarsh@germantownumc.org

We have a full service exercise facility at the OLEC, and membership is free to church members.

Membership includes access to the walking track, open gym time, the cardio room, and the weight room.

Our weight room and cardio room have new, state-of-the-art machines.

Group Exercise Classes and Personal Training are available at the OLEC.

Stroller Strides Exercise with your child!

Contact Gordon Kelly or Kim Marsh for more information.

Mon / Wed / Fri 9:30-10:45 am in the OLEC dance room

Follow our Instagram page, @olecgermantown, to keep up with all the latest happenings at the OLEC.

Open Gym Time

Mon / Wed : 3-5 pm Tues / Thurs: 12-8 pm Saturday: 8 am-12 pm 34

Owings Life Enrichment Center (OLEC) Gordon Kelly, Director | gkelly@germantownumc.org Kimberly Marsh, Assistant Dir. | kmarsh@germantownumc.org

Exercise Class Schedule August 2023 Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

9-10 am *Vinyasa Yoga Corbie Hadley (DR) 9:30-10:45 am Stroller Strides (DR)

10-11 am Walk Fit (DR) Judy Pearson

9:30-10:45 am Stroller Strides (DR)

10-11 am Chair Class (DR) Judy Pearson

9:30-10:45 am Stroller Strides (DR)

2-3 pm Vinyasa Yoga (DR)-Al Walton 3:30-4:30 pm Gentle Yoga (DR) Al Walton

3:30-4:30 pm Gentle Yoga (DR)- Al Walton

5:00-5:45 pm Tighten & Tone (UP) - Judy Oros

5:00-5:45 pm Core & More (DR or UP) Judy Oros

Class Locations: Weight Room—WR Dance Room—DR Upstairs Room—UP

6-7 pm Fit 4 Baby (DR)

Class Prices $5.00 - Walk Fit, Chair Class, Gentle Yoga $10.00 - Core & More, Weights & Conditioning, Tighten & Tone, and Pilates $7.00 - Vinyasa Yoga $89.00/month - Stroller Fit, unlimited classes

• • •

For Al Walton yoga classes, call Al at 901-484-3730 prior to first class.

For Zoom classes: Contact Judy Oros at 901-336-8639 to be added to list for Zoom link.

Saturday yoga: call or text Corbie to let her know you are coming. 901-831-6770

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Germantown United Methodist Church 2331 S. Germantown Rd Germantown, TN 38138 901-754-7216 www.germantownumc.org

our mission

Editor’s Note: The deadline for submitting articles for Tidings is the 10th of the month prior. Submissions received after this deadline are not guaranteed to run.

We are a welcoming community of faith, committed to: Loving God and loving others Serving Christ and sharing Him Transforming lives and making disciples

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