UALC_Ministry Guide - May–June 2023

Dear UALC family,

Recently, during Staff Prayer and Worship, we reflected on the greatness of God through hymns and scripture. One of the hymns was “How Great Thou Art,” and the first stanza’s lyrics resonated with me:

“O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder, Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made; I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed.”

In the last couple weeks, I’ve been planting seeds in my garden in anticipation of a harvest of lettuce (hoping the bunnies don’t get to them first). I’m in awe of the God who grows food from a tiny seed. All creation is a testimony to his goodness, and as we enter into spring and summer, we see his hand at work everywhere we turn.

Just as he is at work in nature, we at UALC have many opportunities to dig in and plant seeds that will grow our faith. Please take some time to look through our Ministry Guide and find opportunities for growth and service. From Vacation Bible School to LIFEwalk to small groups to digging deeper into the Together campaign, you will find a place to plug in.

Let’s use this season of warmth and renewal to plant, cultivate and grow the harvest that is pleasing to God.

God’s

Peace, Kirsten Svendsen Communications Director

Worship

We gather to worship God and encourage one another in the faith. We hear from God’s Word and participate in the sacraments of communion and baptism.

 Find updates and access to worship online at www.ualc.org/worship

Sermon Series

The House We Build Together

APRIL 16–MAY 21

“In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy Temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.” (Ephesians 2:21–22)

We continue with this sermon series. That “building” is you. And it’s the people who aren’t here yet. It’s the people who have gone before us, and the people who will come after us. It’s all of us together in the grace of Jesus Christ and the presence of God’s Spirit. That’s the church that God is building, and it’s the church God calls us to build together with him.

Songs of Summer

BEGINNING JUNE 11

Scrolling through the radio is like scrolling through the full range of human emotions. The bravado of a rap song, then the lament of a country crooner. The anger of hard rock and the longing of a singersongwriter. Believe it or not, thumbing through the book of Psalms is just like that. The full range of human emotion is there, and God wants to meet us in it!

So this summer we will look at the emotion behind popular songs from the radio, match that emotion with Psalms from the Bible, and discover that Jesus is the fulfillment of our deepest human longings.

Pentecost: The Church is Born

MAY 28

Special service on May 28. It has become common to hear people say something like, “The church isn’t a building, it’s a people.” This is true! But it’s also true that the church isn’t just a people. The church is more than a like-minded group. It is a family, created by God Himself. On Pentecost the church was born. And this God-created, God-sustained movement has spread across the globe and across history. On Pentecost, we will celebrate the gift of the Spirit which birthed the church, and which still leads and sustains our church today!

Sunday Schedule

Worship Services

*Livestream available at www.ualc.org/worship

Special Service May 21 and June 4

Special worship services at 10:00 am only at each campus.

Kids’ Church & Nursery

Kids’ Church, for kids PreK–5th grade, continues through May 14 at 9:00 am and 11:00 am at the Mill Run Campus, and 11:00 am at the Lytham Road Campus. May 21st is Rally Sunday, 10:00 am at each location. After this we’ll take a break for the summer. Nursery is available for all services for ages 3 months to under 4 years throughout the year.

PreK Kids’ Church for ages 4–5 continues through June (9:00 am MR, 11:00 am LR).  ualc.org/kidschurch

 Melissa Davis mdavis@ualc.org

Daily Worship Resources

BLOG & BOOKMARK

Follow along with our Daily Worship Blog to read scripture, learn prayer practices, and read a devotion by one of our members or staff. It’s a great way to follow along with the sermon series. Scripture reading list bookmarks are also available in the Connect Centers.  www.ualc.org/dailyworship

Together Together Campaign

Together is a campaign where we come together as one, to invest in our facilities, the vision of UALC, and the mission we share. We are campaigning not only for building renovations, but to grow our faith, commitment, and unity in Christ.

The Together Campaign has two simple objectives:

100% participation. We want every person who calls UALC home to grow in Christ and strengthen the unity of our church by participating in this campaign. We invite everyone to a spiritually catalytic encounter with God about giving a financial sacrifice and about taking next steps of faith as the Spirit leads.

$10 million. We are seeking and praying for the funds to renovate our buildings and grounds to pursue our vision to be an Oasis of God’s Kingdom for the dry and thirsty world around us.

 www.together.ualc.org

Together Campaign Guidebook

Take a trip down memory lane and read about God’s faithfulness to UALC through the decades, from simple beginnings in a basement of a pastor’s home, to our two campuses today. Then look forward and see sketches for future renovations. The guidebook includes series study material for each week with questions, small group discussion, and prayer prompts for your personal time with God.

 Available in the Connect Centers or online at www.together.ualc.org/guidebook.

Important Dates

May 21 Commitment Sunday

Combined Worship at 10:00 am at each campus

June 4 Celebration Sunday

Breakfast at 9:00 am at each campus

Combined Worship at 10:00 am at each campus

July 1

Lytham Road building access changes

Fall 2023

Renovation work begins

Partnership & Mobilization

We serve locally in our church, community, and all around the world.

Find New Ways to Serve

Every week lives are being changed at UALC. From behind the cameras to the front doors, our volunteers make it all happen. We know that every role is impactful as God moves in and through his church. Serving is also an amazing way to make UALC feel more like home. Our new Serve webpage makes it simple for you to identify a volunteer role that leverages your giftings and availability. If websites aren’t your thing, or you simply want assistance finding the right place for you to serve, please contact Jonathan Nasby, jnasby@ualc.org Find opportunities at www.ualc.org/serve or visit the displays in the lobbies to pick up a card.

Some volunteer roles (just to name a few):

• Greeters

• Ushers

• Coffee

• Worship techs

• Camera

• Music/worship

• Building & grounds

• Social media

• Photography

• Kids’ Church

• MSM Ministry team

• HSM Ministry team

Women’s Mission Trip & Team Prayer Call

JUNE 7 –14

Pray for the team of nine women going to the Dominican Republic. They will serve and bring hope and empowerment to the women in their community.

 Amy Turnbull — aturnbull@ualc.org

www.ualc.org/missions

Volunteer Opportunities

Community Garden at Mill Run

Join our garden ministry as we supply thousands of pounds of fresh, organic vegetables for families in our community. Work parties take place on Saturdays. All ages are welcome, tools will be provided.

 www.ualc.org/garden

 Todd Marti todd-kelly@columbus.rr.com

Clothes Closet & Such

WEDNESDAYS ∙ 9:00 AM ∙ MILL RUN CAMPUS

Supplying gently used clothing, shoes, and small household items to those in need in the Greater Columbus area and Ohio. Volunteers are welcome on Wednesdays, 9:00 am in the Mill Run Campus lower level for sorting. Donations can be dropped off in bins at both campuses.

 Michelle Neely — michelle_neely1@me.com

Advance The Mission of UALC

 www.ualc.org/give

Giving to the general fund makes ministry possible at UALC. 20% of the general fund goes directly to supporting missions. The other 80% supports preaching the gospel and the ongoing work of this church.

Volunteer at Vacation Bible School

Serve at VBS

JUNE 26–30

VBS takes 300+ adult and teen volunteers to help put together one amazing week for kids. Please give your time and serve the children of our church and the surrounding community bringing the message of God as our refuge. 

www.ualc.org/vbs

VBS STORY

GAIL BREN

Gail Bren has been involved with VBS at UALC since the mid-70s, and as she enters her fifth decade of service, she has done it all, from director to art helper to teacher. Her three children, six grandchildren, and soon-to-begreat-grandchildren, have loved every minute of their VBS experience. Gail sums up what VBS has meant to her like this: “God has used VBS in countless ways over the years. The adult teachers see their teen helpers bond with the children, who look up to them as role models. And children have so much fun as they bring their friends, who often come from non-church backgrounds. VBS is a positive, faith-filled, joyful experience I am blessed to be part of.”

At her husband Don’s funeral a few years ago, the grandchildren all read scripture. They asked if they could sing a VBS song from 2 Corinthians 4:18 and Gail agreed. When they began to sing, many of their friends and family joined in. VBS has impacted our community for generations, and the 2023 version will be no exception.

Visual Arts Ministry Volunteers

The Visual Arts Ministry (VAM) is looking for new members to help manage artwork at both campuses. Volunteer needs include publicity, scheduling, and hanging art shows.

 Steve Puffenberger — visualarts@ualc.org

Volunteer with Festa

Serve with Festa

A PARENT’S THANKS

“My children were so much happier this summer having something to do. They gained so many new experiences and friends and learned about new and healthy foods. They weren’t on their devices nearly as much! As parents, we were able to get a much-needed breather even if it was for a few hours. A lot of parents suffer from burnout in the summertime and this camp has been a saving grace for many families.”

Festa Summer Lunch Camp

Festa is preparing to run its 17th Free Summer Lunch Camp and we’d love for you to join us! Volunteers of all ages are welcome to come play at summer camp, including children and teens. If you enjoy being in the kitchen, volunteer to help at one of the children’s restaurants.

 Find out more about our mission partner at www.ualc.org/festa.

 Volunteer details: www.wearefesta.org/volunteer

–Parent of children who attended Festa Summer Lunch Camp

Belonging

Connect in small groups and with prayer, care, and support resources.

Fellowship Opportunities

Small Group Ministry

Small groups are three or more individuals meeting together routinely in homes and rooms across the city. UALC Small Groups are where we can join together to know and be known, love and be loved, and care and be cared for. Small group ministry is central to the relational life of our church. In small groups we learn one another’s stories, struggles, and joys. We share our faith, our questions, our time, and our support. We learn Scripture together, and pray with and for each other. In small groups we rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn, and we are our first and best line of defense in caring for one another.

 www.ualc.org/smallgroups

 Dan Kidd — dkidd@ualc.org

Men’s Bootcamp Weekend

Explore key questions about who God intends you to be and the spiritual battle for your heart during this weekend retreat.

Men’s Camp:

June 1–4, Wild Ridge Young Life Camp, WV, $295

 Jeff Schuster bootcamp@ualc.org

 Register at www.ualc.org/bootcamp

Care & Support LIFEwalk Ministry

We are not designed to journey through this life alone, and while we believe Jesus is sufficient for all our needs, sometimes we need help seeing Jesus in the midst of crisis or challenges. LIFEwalk is designed to help with that.

LIFEwalk is a confidential Biblebased prayer ministry committed to the care and encouragement of God’s people. It is not counseling. It is listening, encouraging, praying, and coming alongside one another. When someone is facing a difficult or challenging situation, however big or small, they can request a LIFEwalk team — two trained lay prayer ministers — who will meet with the person on a regular basis for prayer and support.

 www.ualc.org/lifewalk

 Becki Bork — bbork@ualc.org

Prayer Ministry

Do you need prayer? Reach out and share your requests and our prayer ministers will begin praying on your behalf. Would you like to pray for others? We welcome our UALC family to join the weekly prayer email, to pray for the concerns of our people, our church, and our world.

 www.ualc.org/prayer

A Christian, 12-step program helping with all sorts of hurts, habits, and hang-ups.

 www.ualc.org/celebraterecovery

 cr@ualc.org

We are committed to growing the Biblical and theological literacy of our congregation. See the opportunities for learning below, and look for more offerings for adults in the coming year.

Upcoming Classes

Baptism Class

MAY 7 — 1:00 PM (MR) ∙ JUNE 11 — 1:00 PM (LR) OR BY APPOINTMENT

For those interested in being baptized or baptizing their children. Adults, teens, and children of any age are welcome.

 www.ualc.org/baptism

 Mill Run: David White — dwhite@ualc.org

 Lytham Road: Joe Valentino — jvalentino@ualc.org

Adult Sunday School

WEEKLY ON SUNDAYS

LYTHAM ROAD ∙ 10:00–11:00 AM

MILL RUN ∙ 9:30–10:30 AM

Join an in-depth Bible study and discussion. Everyone is welcome.

 www.ualc.org/sundayschool

 Mill Run: David Jakes davidjakess89@gmail.com

 Lytham Road: Barb Masten

barbaramasten@att.net

Thursday Bible Study

THURSDAYS THROUGH MID-JUNE ∙ 10:30 AM

LYTHAM ROAD CAMPUS

Joe and other teachers.

 www.ualc.org/stayconnected

 Joe Valentino

jvalentino@ualc.org

Next Generation

Kids and teens are formed by foundational Christian teaching in age-appropriate ways. We also equip and support families for prayer and spiritual conversation together.

Vacation Bible School

Vacation Bible School 2023

JUNE 26–30

VBS is a week full of children, teens, and adults singing, playing, laughing, and learning all about Jesus. Kids will find our buildings transformed into a desert land, ready for them to journey with Daniel and friends through Israel’s exile years in Babylon. At the end of the story, an Oasis awaits, with refreshment that only comes from God. Invite friends!

Vacation Bible School

Kids finishing Kindergarten— Grade 5. Mill Run Campus

Morning Session

9:00 am–12:00 pm

Afternoon Session

1:00 pm–4:00 pm

Young Kid VBS

Ages 18 months—PreK with a caregiver. Lytham Road Campus

Morning Session Only

9:30– 11:00 am

(nursery available for 3– 18 mo)

REGISTRATION

Early Bird Registration: $15 (by May 26)

Registration: $25 (May 27 and after)

 www.ualc.org/vbs  vbs@ualc.org

Kids Ministry

Kids Camp

JULY 16–20 ∙ WOODLAND LAKES CAMP ∙ AMELIA, OH

Fun, faith-formational overnight camp for kids completing grades 2– 5. Kids hear and sing about Jesus, make new friends, swim, traverse a climbing wall, zipline and more! UALC members, non-members, and friends are welcome! Register by July 1.

 www.ualc.org/camps

 Contact Melissa Davis mdavis@ualc.org

Kids’ Church

See page 2 or go online for more information.

 www.ualc.org/kidschurch

UALC Preschool and Kindergarten

Experience our caring, hands-on approach to learning and faith building with our respected staff and programs for 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds. There are openings for the 2023–24 school year which will be at the Mill Run Campus.

 www.ualc.org/preschool

 Jodi Coleman

preschool@ualc.org

Middle School Ministry

MSM Sunday Nights

SUNDAYS THROUGH MAY 21

4:00–6:00 PM

Join a fun, welcoming community where middle schoolers can grow, connect, play lots of games with friends, and have many faith building experiences. End of Year Party is on May 21 then we’ll take a break until the next school year begins.

 www.ualc.org/middleschool

 Kelsey Bacon kbacon@ualc.org

MSM Camp

Middle School Mission Trip (Local)

JUNE 12–14 ∙ CENTRAL OHIO

Join us for a 3-day, 2-night mission trip in Columbus! We will serve with lots of different ministries around the city, and learn about God’s call on our lives to be on mission wherever we are.

 www.ualc.org/middleschool

 Kelsey Bacon kbacon@ualc.org

JULY 11–15 ∙ WOODLAND LAKES CAMP ∙ AMELIA, OH

Don’t miss a week of outdoor adventures, awesome teaching and worship, and hanging with friends at Woodland Lakes Camp. UALC members, non-members, and friends welcome.

Register by July 1.

 www.ualc.org/camps

 Kelsey Bacon— kbacon@ualc.org

Teen Connect | Grades 6–12

Teens come hang out with leaders and each other in the lobby every Sunday morning after each service. Free donuts!

High School Ministry

HSM Sunday Night

SUNDAYS THROUGH MAY 21∙ 4:00–6:00 PM

Each week the focus will be on connection, going deeper in God’s Word in small groups, sharing dinner, and having fun doing it all.

“End of Year ‘Par-TAY’” is on May 21 then we’ll take a break until the next school year.

 Steve Almquist — salmquist@ualc.org

High School Mission Trip Prayer Call

JUNE 11–17 ∙ MILWAUKEE, WI

Pray for the team of 20 students and leaders, going to Milwaukee to serve alongside some local missions.

 www.ualc.org/highschool

 Steve Almquist salmquist@ualc.org

Summer Kick-Off Pool Party

JUNE 8 ∙ 6:00–9:30 PM

Start off the summer with HSM at a neighbor’s pool. Bring your bathing suit, towel, and a good appetite. Meet at Mill Run and we’ll travel together. Cost is $5.

 Register ualc.org/highschool

 salmquist@ualc.org

Summer Fun

Mill Run Community Cookouts

Enjoy the summer and get to know your UALC family better by attending a backyard Community Cookout. Eight cookouts will be scheduled June–August.

 Register online at ww ualc.org/stayconnected

 Stacy Schad, sschad@ualc.org

Mill Run Movie Night

JUNE 16 ∙ 6:30–9:00 PM

Adults and high school students are invited to a showing of “Jesus Revolution.” Delicious snacks and a time of sharing to follow.

 Register online at www.ualc.org/stayconnected

 Stacy Schad, sschad@ualc.org

Information and Resources

Other Resources

UALC Libraries

LYTHAM ROAD CAMPUS MILL RUN CAMPUS

Find Bibles, non-fiction and fiction books, studies, and materials for kids and teens at both LR and MR libraries. Online catalog available.

 www.ualc.org/library

 Gail Crosser bac54gac55@gmail.com

Connect with us!

Facebook & Instagram

Stay connected to the church, follow our Facebook and Instagram pages, or join one of our Community Groups for each campus.

 www.facebook.com/ualutheran

 www.instagram.com/ualutheran

Watch a Sermon

UALC Mobile App

Use our app to find resources like our Daily Worship Blog, sermons and media, and manage financial giving.

 www.ualc.org/app

Did you miss a sermon or want to share one with a friend? Find sermons, or the entire worship service, on YouTube.

 www.youtube.com/@UALCvideo

The mission of UALC is to be and to make disciples of Jesus Christ. We believe that God has called us to be an Oasis of His kingdom for a dry and thirsty world. We envision a future where we are so wellwatered in the love and truth and Spirit of Christ that it transforms our life together, and people who encounter our church community would say, “see how they love one another,” to the glory of God. Hilliard Mill Run Campus

3500 Mill Run Drive

Upper

Arlington