UALC Ministry Guide – Sept-Oct 2023

Dear UALC Family,

The fall ministry year is off to a great start! Next Gen back-toschool ministries started with enthusiasm and energy. The Songs of Summer sermon series continues for a few more weeks and it has offered fresh perspectives on the timeless Psalms. The behindthe-scenes work at the Lytham Road Campus has been incredible as staff and volunteers made great strides getting the new worship space ready. I hope you’re following along with the updates on the Together blog. You’ll see pictures of the new “tabernacle” worship space (formerly known as Fellowship Hall) with the sanctuary pews now filling the room.

As we move into this next season of ministry, we’re launching an exciting new resource designed especially for small groups. It’s called Wells of Truth – The Gospel and is a video-based series created by Pastor Steve and staff. Read more on page 8 and get ready to learn, laugh, and grow as a disciple. If you aren’t already in a small group, this is a great time to join during our Small Group Fall Launch on September 10 and 17. Although the video teaching series was designed for a small group format, we are also using this same curriculum during the new Sunday Afternoon Education Hour.

Please take some time to read this Ministry Guide. Discover where you fit, and actively participate in the life of our church.

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 Gospel of Exodus

BEGINS THE END OF SEPTEMBER

Is that a typo? Maybe you’ve heard of the Gospel of Matthew…or Mark, Luke, or John. But what is the Gospel of Exodus? As we launch the fall season this year, we’ll turn back again (almost) to the beginning of the Bible and read the good news story of God’s saving work for his people. We will learn how God listens and what God says. We will learn about God’s power over evil and give thanks for his mercy when that evil is in us. We’ll read the story of the Ten Commandments and receive the promise of God to be present among us, when we obey them and when we don’t. Mostly we will learn how these old stories teach us about the character and work of God in our world today.

Gospel of Exodus Journal

Dive deeper into the sermon series with our journal. Use it at home and bring to worship each week. Journals are available at the Connect Center or online at www.ualc.org/journal, beginning September 24.

Sunday Schedule Worship Services

*Livestream available at www.ualc.org/worship

Kids’ Church and Nursery

Kids connect with God in meaningful ways and learn from his Word in highly-engaging ways. On “Small Group Sundays,” elementary kids start in the service and are dismissed prior to the sermon for grade-specific small groups. PreK kids stay in their class the entire service. They build deeper friendships and discipleship conversations. Once a month, elementary kids go to “Rally Sunday,” an exciting, kid-friendly service that runs the entire worship hour. Nursery is available for all services.

 www.ualc.org/kidschurch ∙  Melissa Davis — mdavis@ualc.org

9:00 am

Nursery

PreK (Ages 4—5)

Kindergarten–5th Grade

11:00 am

Nursery

Kindergarten–5th Grade

9:00 am

Nursery

11:00 am

Nursery

PreK (Ages 4—5)

Kindergarten–5th Grade

MILL RUN CAMPUS

LYTHAM ROAD CAMPUS

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.

Together Campaign Update:

The Together Bible verse reveals to us that “In him (we) are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit” (Eph 2:22). This is evident now as we move into the renovations and the many exciting times ahead in our church family. Significant transformations are underway: ministries have been reshuffled, the Lytham Road worship space is new, and traffic patterns are changing. In this period of change, the UALC community is strengthening its bond. It’s heartwarming to see groups adjusting positively to the shifts. While these transitions may be challenging, they are opportunities to grow in faith and deepen our trust in God. While the immediate results will be a tangible structure, remember that they are but a piece of a grander narrative that God is weaving. Thanks to all who have begun making Together gifts. If you haven’t done so yet, visit www.together.ualc.org/give and find the various ways to contribute.

Belonging

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

Group Opportunities

Small Group Ministry

One of the first events of Jesus’ ministry was gathering a small group of disciples (12 of them). From the very beginning, following Jesus has been a community movement. At UALC, small groups are central to the relational life of our church. Within these groups we can know and be known, love and be loved, and care and be cared for. The family of God is knit together as we share our stories with one another, along with our struggles and celebrations. We share our faith, our questions, our time, and our support. We hear and discuss scripture together and pray with and for one another. In small groups we walk together in the way of the Holy Spirit.

UALC small groups are three or more individuals who meet routinely in homes and rooms across the city.

Small Group Launch Campaign

Throughout the weeks of September 10 and 17 we invite everyone to join a group. We are launching several new groups so there are plenty of options to choose from. If you are interested in joining, hosting, or facilitating a small group, contact Dan Kidd.

Women of the Word (WOW) Fall Study

Our fall women’s Bible study will be unpacking the life of the early church with Kristi McLelland’s book, The Gospel on the Ground: The Grit and Glory of the Early Church in Acts. There are four sessions to choose from, each lasting seven weeks. Studies begin the week of September 3. Register online.

A Source of Blessing

ELAINE PIERCE

What happens when you sign up to join a small group Bible study with ten people you don’t know, and a month later your in-person meetings become on-line Zoom events because a frightening new virus called Covid forces churches, along with restaurants, businesses, and schools, to close to stop the spread of the illness? My first thought was that the group was over; we will never get to know each other and grow together to support, love and pray for each other. Or do you continue to meet, and discover that God can work even on a laptop screen?

That’s what happened to our small group and others, back in March 2020. We had met three or four times in person when Governor DeWine called for a two-week lock down to “slow the spread” of this dangerous virus. We all know that two weeks led to nearly a year of restrictions. And yet, God continued to be faithful as we met first online, then outdoors, spaced six feet apart, and finally, returning to in-person meetings. Our group has grown as members have invited friends to join us. We have walked through one person losing a spouse after a devastating cancer diagnosis. We have shared meals together, and we have had fun at a euchre party. We have celebrated milestone birthdays, we have prayed for wayward children, we have rejoiced when prayers are answered, and we continue to challenge each other to read scripture, to wrestle with it, and to bring our burdens to the Lord.

Our small group began in the midst of a global pandemic, which on paper seemed like a recipe for failure. But God knew the pandemic would be coming, and he has blessed us beyond measure. Our small group is a source of blessing, of comfort, and of challenge for me, and I can’t wait to see how he will use each one of us in the days and years ahead.

Revelation Wellness Christ-Centered Fitness Class

MONDAYS ∙ 9:30–10:45 AM ∙ MILL RUN CAMPUS

Christ-centered fitness group combining the Word of God with a full-body workout. Ages 18 and up. Register online.

 www.ualc.org/sports

 Michelle Neely — michelle_neely1@me.com

Friendship Bible Class

FIRST AND THIRD WEDNESDAYS ∙ 6:30-8:00 PM ∙ MILL RUN

This new, In His Image ministry, is for individuals who are differentlyabled to participate in fellowship, worship, and Bible study. Participants are encourgaed to bring a provider or care giver. Begins October 4. Register online.

If you would like to join or volunteer, contact Tonya Riedel.

 www.ualc.org/inhisimage ∙  Tonya Riedel — triedel@ualc.org

Care & Support LIFEwalk Ministry

A confidential Bible-based 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, 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

Upcoming Events

Mill Run Fall Fest

SEPTEMBER 17 ∙ 4:00-7:00 PM

Enjoy life together as a community at the Mill Run Fall Fest. There will be food trucks, pickle ball, euchre tournament, giant inflatables, face painting, free raffle prizes, kite festival, popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones, and music! Bring money for the food trucks but everything else is free!

 www.ualc.org/fallfest ∙  Stacy Schad, sschad@ualc.org

Trunk or Treat!

OCTOBER 29 ∙ 4:00-6:00 PM

LYTHAM ROAD, SOUTH LOT

An evening of fun for all ages! Enjoy dinner, fellowship, trunk-ortreating, and candy!

 Tammy Schuster, tschuster@ualc.org

Spiritual Retreats

Men’s Bootcamp

NOVEMBER 9-12

HOCKING HILLS

Join us on a retreat based on John Eldredge’s book Wild at Heart. Can be life changing! Come and see. Cost: $295 inlcludes lodging, meals, activities, and resources.

 www.ualc.org/bootcamp

 Jeff Schuster, bootcamp@ualc.com

Women’s Bootcamp

NOVEMBER 16-19

HOCKING HILLS

Join other women and take an opportunity to be refreshed and renewed as the Lord speaks to your heart. Cost: $300 includes lodgings, meals, and resources.

 www.ualc.org/bootcamp

 Stacy Schad, wbootcamp@ualc.org

We are committed to growing the Biblical and theological literacy of our congregation.

Upcoming Classes

Wells of Truth: The Gospel

COMING IN SEPTEMBER

For the last year, Pastor Steve and the UALC education team have been working on a video series for adults and small groups. This sevenepisode video series on the Gospel is part of the Wells of Truth—a collection of study series we will be rolling out over the next several years to help develop the Biblical and theological foundation of our church. Learn more at wellsoftruth.org.

This series was created for a small group setting. If you aren’t in a small group yet, sign-up at www.ualc.org/smallgroups.

New Member Class

OCT 8-22 ∙ 4:00-5:30 PM

MILL RUN CAMPUS

UALC is a dynamic family always welcoming new people. This three-session class, led by campus pastors and staff, is for those who want to get connected and understand how we live out our mission and vision.

 Register at www.ualc.org/newmember

 Mill Run: David White

dwhite@ualc.org

 Lytham Road: Joe Valentino

jvalentino@ualc.org

Baptism Class

SECOND SUNDAY EVERY MONTH AT 1:00 PM OR BY APPT

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

 Visit www.ualc.org/baptism

 Mill Run: David White

dwhite@ualc.org

 Lytham Road: Joe Valentino

jvalentino@ualc.org

New! Sunday Afternoon Adult Education

SEPTEMBER 24 - NOVEMBER 12 ∙ 4:30-6:00 PM ∙ MILL RUN

Life and the Bible have this in common: they can both seem awfully complicated. Part of growing in Christ together is learning to understand the Bible and how to think through life’s questions with Jesus at the center.

We are starting this fall where Jesus himself started: with the announcement and teaching of the Gospel. We’re using our new Wells of Turth video-teaching series. We’ll learn:

• How the Gospel of Jesus sounded to the ears of those who heard it first.

• How the Gospel of Jesus meets our deepest human needs, and how to stop looking for life where it can’t be found.

• How the Gospel gives guidance, and power, for living together in the way of Jesus.

• How to share the good news of Jesus with others in ways that still feel like good news.

Join us for our new education hour beginning Sunday, September 24 at 4:30-6:00 pm at Mill Run. Register at www.ualc.org/education. Childcare available.

Thursday Bible Study

THURSDAYS ∙ 10:30 AM MILL RUN CAMPUS

Join an in-depth Bible study led by Pastor Joe and other teachers.

 www.ualc.org/education

 Joe Valentino jvalentino@ualc.org

Adult Sunday School

WEEKLY ON SUNDAYS

WINDERMERE ∙ 10:00-11:00 AM (BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 10)

MILL RUN ∙ 9:30–10:45 AM

Join an in-depth Bible study and discussion.

 www.ualc.org/sundayschool

 Mill Run: David Jakes davidjakes89@gmail.com

 Lytham Road: Barb Masten barbaramasten@att.net

Women of the Word (WOW) Fall Bible Study

See page 4 for more information.

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.

Kids Ministry

Kids’ Church

See page 2 or go online for more information.

 www.ualc.org/kidschurch

Awana Clubs®

WEDNESDAYS ∙ 6:30-7:45 PM

MILL RUN CAMPUS

Children age 3 through sixth grade build lasting faith foundations through Bible memorization and fun activities.

Beginning September 6.

 Register: www.ualc.org/awana

 Josh Snare, awana@ualc.org

Carol Choir

WEDNESDAYS ∙ 4:00-5:30 PM

MILL RUN CAMPUS

For children in grades 3-6. Sing, look into the Bible, and play high-energy games. Now at the Mill Run Campus during renovations. Register online. Cos: $30/family

 www.ualc.org/elementary

 laura.natalie@mac.com

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 this year which is at the Mill Run Campus.

 www.ualc.org/preschool

 Jennifer Bailey preschool@ualc.org

Kids Connect

Starts September 11!

An opportunity for kids to gather, share a meal and activity time with their peers and Kids Ministry leaders. Second Monday of each month, 6:00-7:30 pm. Cost: $10. Register online.

 www.ualc.org/elementary

 Tonya Riedel triedel@ualc.org

Middle School Ministry (MSM)

MSM Sunday Nights

SUNDAYS, 4:00–6:00 PM MILL RUN CAMPUS

Join a fun, welcoming community where middle schoolers can grow, connect, play lots of games with friends, eat dinner, and have faith building experiences.

 www.ualc.org/middleschool

 Kelsey Bacon

kbacon@ualc.org

MSM Fall Late Nighter

MSM Tailgate

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

5:00-7:00 PM

Join us for a cookout before heading to your Friday night football game! Food, friends, fun and games! Location TBD.

 www.ualc.org/middleschool

 Kelsey Bacon

kbacon@ualc.org

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 6, 6:00-11:00 PM MILL RUN CAMPUS

A fun-packed night of huge games, lots of pizza, and even more games. Invite your friends. Register online.

 www.ualc.org/middleschool

 Kelsey Bacon — kbacon@ualc.org

Teen Connect | Grades 6–12

Teens come hang out with leaders and each other in the lobby at Mill Run, and on the patio at Lytham Road, every Sunday morning after each service. Free donuts!

High School Ministry (HSM)

HSM Sunday Night

SUNDAYS ∙ 4:00–6:00 PM ∙ MILL RUN

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. (Not meeting on September 3 or October 8.)

 Steve Almquist — salmquist@ualc.org

Confirmation Year

BEGINS SEPTEMBER 10

Juniors and seniors find community, learn about God and take some amazing steps in owning their faith.

 Register: www.ualc.org/highschool

 Steve Almquist salmquist@ualc.org

Mill Run Fall Fest

Fall Fun Night

OCTOBER 7 ∙ 5:00 - 11:00 PM

Don’t miss this amazing night of outdoor fall fun. Competitions, great food, fun and s’mores. Location TBD - meet at Mill Run.

Cost: $15

 Register: www.ualc.org/highschool

 Steve Almquist salmquist@ualc.org

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 ∙ 4:00–7:00 PM ∙ MILL RUN

Join the whole church for a lot of fun including the wrecking ball. Food trucks will be there also. More information on page 7.

Trunk or Treat

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29, 4:00-6:00 PM ∙ LYTHAM ROAD

Costume contest at 6:00 pm. Bring one bag of candy to hand out. More information on page 7. (Note: meet at the Lytham Road Campus.)

Partnership & Mobilization

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

Short-Term Mission

JEN GEISTFELD

The village of Caliche was known as the “forgotten” but once you visit, it won’t take long for you to understand why they are unforgettable.

About ten years ago, we became sister churches and partners in an approach to holistic community development. The truth is that we both strengthened and developed our faith, families and communities. A partnership is more than transactional, it is a relationship that cares, supports and provides value to each other. Heart to Honduras has given UALC the opportunity to do just that - to experience the love of Jesus in a tangible way through our brothers and sisters in Honduras.

I have traveled to Honduras since 2001, but these past few years traveling with my children have been incredible. To watch my daughter love and engage with the people of Honduras is something I will cherish and cling to. I look forward to taking my son with me this year. Oh, the tears and the laughter, worship through song, prayer or action, the team building and sharing of meals, working shoulder to shoulder carrying cement up a hill, playing soccer with the children or holding someone’s hand. Whether you are looking for an adventure, a different way to engage in your Christian walk, or simply like nature, being part of a short-term mission trip might be for you.

Short-term Mission Trip

JANUARY 13-20, 2024

We’ll serve alongside Heart to Honduras through community projects and relationships. Adults and teens (age 13+ with a parent) are welcome to apply. Approximate cost: $1300-1500. Application deadline: September 17.

Jonathan Nasby — jnasby@ualc.org

Festa’s 3-Generation Family ESL

Festa’s 3-Generation Family English as a Second Language program serves entire families — from 3 months to grandparent age — with the education each person needs to take steps out of poverty. Each school year, we welcome new American families seeking to learn English and move from surviving to thriving.

Festa is alwasy looking for volunteers-- adults, teens, groups and families.

 www.ualc.org/festa

Take a Tour of Family ESL

Come take a tour of Festa’s 3-Generation ESL program! Available tour dates are October 3, 5, 10, or 12 at 6:30 pm. Register at www. ualc.org/festa.

 Jonathan Nasby — jnasby@ualc.org

Family ESL Classroom Assistants

Join in the joy of leading internationals in learning English. Six levels, from true beginner to advanced. Training and orientation sessions will be offered in September.

 David Mann — dmann@ualc.org

Opportunities for All

While the adults are learning English, their children are cared for, fed dinner, and kept engaged in fun programming. Serve as a Dinner Angel (providing dinner for the children age 3-18), hold a baby, or help with preschool activities or school homework.

 Lydia Emch — lemch@wearefesta.org

Find New Ways to Serve

Volunteer with IFI

International Friendships, Inc (IFI) promotes friendship and hospitality to international students, scholars and families. Volunteer opportunities include airport pick up; temporary housing (3-4 nights); conversation partner; English Conversation Club; host a student for a holiday meal. Attend training to learn more about IFI and cross-cultural missions on October 15, 12:30 pm, Mill Run Campus.

 Register: www.ualc.org/ifi ∙  Jonathan Nasby — jnasby@ualc.org

More Ways to Serve

Other volunteer opportunities (just to name a few) include, Kids’ Church, Awana Clubs, MSM and HSM small group leaders, greeters, ushers, coffee, worship techs, camera, music/worship, building and grounds, care ministry, and photography.  www.ualc.org/serve ∙  Jonathan Nasby — jnasby@ualc.org

Kairos Prison Ministry Cookies

Bake homemade, chocolate chip cookies to share with correctional residents on the Kairos weekend. Pray over them and package two dozen per one-gallon Ziplock bag. Label “Kairos” and bring to the dedicated freezer at the Mill Run Campus by Thursday, September 7.

 www.ualc.org/kairos ∙  Eric Spires — eric.spires@gmail.com

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 are provided.

www.ualc.org/garden

Todd Marti

todd-kelly@columbus.rr.com

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 Mill Run.

 Michelle Neely — michelle_neely1@me.com

Advance The Mission of UALC

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

Information and Resources

Other Resources

UALC Library

MILL RUN CAMPUS

Find Bibles, non-fiction and fiction books, studies, and materials for kids and teens at the Mill Run Library. 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

myUALC

Do you know about myUALC? myUALC provides ways to connect with others and access to great resources. Visit www. ualc.org/stayconnected and click on “myUALC Directory” to login, create, or update your profile.

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

Hillard, OH 43026

Upper Arlington Lytham Road Campus

2300 Lytham Road

Columbus, OH 43220

www.ualc.org