JULY 2013
the
magazine
DISCIPLE Bible Study Summer Mission Projects
God’s Word Across the World Manchester UMC’s Global Impact
w o n K o t d e e N u o Y t Wha about The Bible: a sermon series s by Pastor Greg Week
July 7 out the Bible Basic Questions ab OK. Find real world ’s We’re curious, and that d. tions about God’s Wor answers to valid ques . Communion provided
July 14
Old Testament Understanding the Shalts,” and why the u Find out about the “Tho e relevant for today. ar words of the prophets
July 21
New Testament Understanding the lations in Christ, and reve Explore the powerful ting to us. God’s new way of rela
July 28
ead the Bible? How Should You R hether you’re .W Discovery is permitted w community, find out ho reading alone or in a imagination helps. of July, our During the month the Bible. focus is on anchester UMC We encourage all M nds to bring a members and frie e the article to Bible to worship. Se Debbie Irving t the right, or contac le questions. ib B y with an
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WHAT BIBLE SHOULD I USE? Several factors go into deciding which Bible is right for you. Here are a few tips: STUDY OR DEVOTIONAL READING? A good study Bible provides introductions to each book of the Bible, giving you an idea about who wrote it, when it was written and what the major themes are in the book. The New Oxford Annotated Bible (2010) and The Harper Collins Study Bible are both strong choices for overall study. If you want a Bible for devotional reading only, you may want to consider a Bible that relates to an area of your interest. (Women’s, Men’s, Student, “Green,” and Poverty and Justice are several examples) WHICH VERSION IS BEST FOR YOU? Solid translations in English include the NRSV (New Revised Standard Version), NIV (New International Version) and CEB (Common English Bible. The CEB uses the most current, everyday English. SO, HOW DO I DECIDE? It’s a good idea to look at a few Bibles side-by-side and compare how they translate a favorite passage, what the notes say and which translation fits with your style of reading. Looking at Psalm 23 is usually a good place to start. If you have further questions, please feel free to send me an e-mail. Debbie Irving, Dir. Faith Formation debbie.irving@manchesterumc.org
A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
This month, our focus is on the Bible, also known as “The Living Word,“ The Good Book,” and “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.” No matter what title tickles your fancy, our goal is to make a difference for Christ in the world by spreading God’s Word. Here at “home,” you’re invited to bring your Bible to worship each Sunday during the month of July. Through Pastor Greg’s sermon series (Page 2), we’ll answer questions, explore both Testaments, and learn more about how to read the Bible. For in-depth study, consider registering for Disciple I (Page 10), a 34-week class that assumes no prior Bible study. Find out how we’re spreading God’s word in Mozambique on page 6, with your generous contributions.
There are so many great ways to connect at Manchester UMC. Peruse through this issue to find out how. Do you have news to share? Visit manchesterumc.org/comms to submit news for the next issue of the Difference magazine.
Cartiay McCoy Director of Communications
THE BIBLE IS ...
05 KINGDOM HOUSE VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
“God’s living word that continually nourishes, sustains, and challenges us in our growth as Christians. “
“my basis of religion.” —Ray Smith, Financial Assistant
—Rev. Jennifer Finley Director of Children & Family Ministry
Manchester United Methodist Church
“the living word of God that gives us insight into who we are, and how we are to live with one another.” —Rev. Beth Elders Dir. of Mission & Outreach
06 MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN MOZAMBIQUE
10 DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY
15 CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP COLLEGE
129 Woods Mill Rd. Manchester, MO 63011 www.manchesterumc.org | 636.394.7506 MANCHESTERUMC.ORG | 3
Celebrate God’s welcoming love for everyone at Cokesbury’s Everywhere Fun Fair: Where God’s World Comes Together!
Connection
SPOTLIGHT
Manchester Men
Fun Fair Evening July 14–18 Sunday – Thursday 6 – 8 p.m. Fun Fair Morning July 15–18 Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – Noon Registration is closed. Visit manchesterumc.org/VBS2013 for updates and photos after sessions are complete.
Manchester United Methodist Men (MUMM) includes, represents and supports the activities of all men of the church and other interested men within our community. Most MUMM sponsored events are open to the public, including women and youth. Some of the events and activities that MUMM is known for include: • The Christmas tree lot (involves over 200 volunteers and nearly 1,000 customers annually).
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• Saturday morning men’s Bible study is a great way to start the weekend. • The bicycle rehab program has produced in excess of 2,750 bicycles for those in need throughout the community. • The barbeque team provides food for a variety of venues. Visit manchesterumc.org > Adults > Men to learn more.
KINGDOM HOUSE VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
BY REV. BETH ELDERS
R
emember your summers as a child? Whether hanging out with friends, taking trips, or eating ice cream, you had a blast.
For some children in St. Louis, summers consist of days spent at home caring for siblings while their parents work. Many families on the Near Southside turn to Kingdom House’s summer day camp for a fun-filled and safe way for children to spend their summer vacations. The seven-week camp ends one week before school begins, in order to allow college-age staff members to leave to school. Manchester UMC is again sponsoring the eighth week of camp, helping provide enriching opportunities for children, and free childcare for their parents.
Children receive breakfast, lunch, a snack, VBS t-shirt, CD of music, and all materials. YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE:
August 5 - 9 Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Volunteer today: Help lead children through rotations and assist with each day’s activities. (All volunteers must be Safe Sanctuary certified by August 1.) Volunteer for the week, or for a day or two! Serve all day or partial-day shifts: 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 12 noon - 4:30 p.m. To volunteer, sign up at the Faith in Action table in the Narthex or at www. manchesterumc.org/fia.
“Children are exposed to God’s love through the many interactions that occur during VBS, helping them rejuvenate and refocus. Kingdom House is blessed to be the home for it all to happen.” —Yvonne Hart Dir. of Youth Development, Kingdom House
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MAKING A DIFFERENCE
IN MOZAMBIQUE Children in Mabumbuza, Mozambique will be able to attend school near their homes with Manchester UMC support.
M
anchester UMC is excited to announce the groundbreaking of a school in Mabumbuza, Mozambique. Funds for this much-needed school were raised several years ago by parishioners of Manchester UMC after returning from a mission trip to Mabumbuza. After working with the Mozambique government on the approval of a school (and providing the salary for the teacher), the approval was recently given to begin construction.
Children in this community have been attending school underneath a tree in the village center, since the nearest state-run elementary school is over an hour’s walk from their homes. Construction began on the school on May 16, 2013, and hopes to be completed this fall. The first phase of construction is now complete, with the foundation laid and walls constructed through windowheight. When finished, the school will accommodate 50+ children in the community.
led by Bishop Nhanala (Bishop of Mozambique), Rev. Eugenio Nhari (District Superintendent of the Massinga North District), and Pastor Ansemo Vasco Chidala (Pastor of Mabumbuza United Methodist Church). Mambumbuza UMC has been the Manchester UMC covenant partner through the Missouri Conference Mozambique Initiative.
In previous years, we have built a church, a parsonage, a well, and helped to provide the pastor’s salary. As a congregation, we A formal groundbreaking ceremony are looking forward to continuing was held the weekend of June 8, our support to Mabumbuza and
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other communities in Mozambique in need of additional support. To make a financial gift to the Manchester UMC school in Mabumbuza, you can write a check to Manchester UMC and indicate “Africa School” in the memo line. Funds received will be used to defray additional building costs and to help provide needed materials for the school and children to utilize. Stay tuned for more information on other ways you can make a difference in the lives of children in Mabumbuza and throughout Mozambique through our Mozambique Initiative. Contact Rev. Beth Elders, Director of Outreach & Missions (beth.elders@manchesterumc.org or 636-200-4724) for more information.
SNEAKERS WITH SOUL
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
DONATE Donate new sneakers for children and youth (child, youth, and adult sizes) between July 6 and August 4. Drop off your donations at church on Sunday mornings or anytime throughout the week at the Sneakers with Soul table in the Narthex.
Tattered sneakers with toes poking through may suffice for lazy summer days, but the upcoming school year calls for serious new shoes. Manchester UMC’s Sneakers with Soul ministry’s mission is to put shoes on the feet of area children in need, working towards a day when no child goes back to school without new shoes.
VOLUNTEER Donations received will be distributed to children and youth in the Kingdom House neighborhood at the Back to School Festival on August 10 at Peabody Elementary School.
Since its inception in 2010, Manchester UMC has collected and distributed over 9,000 new sneakers to children and youth in need in the St. Louis area. These shoes have been distributed to clients of Kingdom House, a United Methodist social service agency serving families on the Near Southside, and to Operation Food Search.
Volunteers are needed for: Set-up: 7–9 a.m. Shoe Distribution: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Clean Up: 3–4 p.m.
Shoes are distributed at a fun-filled Back To School celebration at Peabody Elementary School in the Kingdom House neighborhood. Children and youth not only receive new shoes, but through partnerships with other UMC churches and social service agencies, they receive backpacks, school supplies, and much more to help them prepare for a new school year.
For more information about Sneakers with Soul, visit www.manchesterumc. org/sneakers or stop by the Faith in Action table in the Narthex on Sunday mornings.
“It’s through the generosity of the friends and members of Manchester United Methodist that this very worthwhile ministry continues in its now 4th year of ministering to the underprivileged children and youth of Greater St. Louis.” – Maurice ‘Moe’ Parisien, chairperson, Sneakers with Soul Ministry
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JULY 2013 06 Sneakers with Soul Shoe Collection Begins Saturday Worship Chapel 5 p.m.
Sunday Worship Sanctuary 8 a.m. (Traditional) 9:30 a.m. (Contemporary) 11 a.m. (Traditional)
8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Circle of Friends Summer Session 5
01
6 - 8 p.m. Worship Arts Camp Parenting Through Middle School Years
Sunday Worship Sanctuary 8 a.m. (Traditional) 9:30 a.m. (Contemporary) 11 a.m. (Traditional)
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6 - 8 p.m. Worship Arts Camp Families in Service Together
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08 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Circle of Friends Summer Session 6
12:15 p.m. Safe Sanctuary Training
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8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Circle of Friends Summer Session 5
Mid-High Mission Trip Cherokee Nation begins
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18 9 a.m. - 12 noon Morning VBS ends
9 a.m. - 12 noon Morning VBS begins
6 - 8 p.m. Evening VBS ends
Disciple Bible Study Registration Begins 6 - 8 p.m. Evening VBS begins
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25
26 9:30 - 10:30 p.m. Kiddie Gym
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8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Circle of Friends Summer Session 5
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9:15 p.m. Manchester Fireworks 6:30 - 9 p.m. Bike Rehab BBQ
6 - 8 p.m. Worship Arts Camp Joshua Movie Night Worship at 7:30 p.m.
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04 9:30 - 10:30 p.m. Kiddie Gym
02
9:30 - 10:30 p.m. Kiddie Gym
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Mid-High Mission Trip Cherokee Nation
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20 Saturday Worship Chapel 5 p.m.
Youth Spirit Camp Saturday Worship Chapel 5 p.m. Sunday Worship Sanctuary 6 - 8 p.m. Boot Camp for Sixth Graders
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Mid-High Missions Trip Cherokee Nation ends
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Saturday Worship Chapel 5 p.m.
7:15 a.m. - 6 p.m. Senior High Float Trip
9:30 - 10:30 p.m. Kiddie Gym
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Sunday Worship Sanctuary 8 a.m. (Traditional) 9:30 a.m. (Contemporary) 11 a.m. (Traditional)
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6 - 8 p.m. All Youth “Christmas in July” Party
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Spirit Camp
Spirit Camp
6 - 8 p.m. Boot Camp for Sixth Graders
6 - 8 p.m. Boot Camp for Sixth Graders
Spirit Camp
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DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY Digging deeper depths into God’s Word.
D
isciple is a small group Bible study designed to give participants a deeper look into the Bible. Studies range from 32-34 weeks in length and consist of daily readings and a weekly gathering of the Disciple group. At weekly meetings, group discussion centers on the daily readings and a DVD presentation featuring Biblical scholars who shed additional light on the texts being studied. Each group is limited to eleven participants and one leader. This study does not assume any previous Bible study. The study manual costs $38. You do not have to be United Methodist to take Disciple Bible Study.
Disciple Bible Study is for anyone wanting to learn more about the scriptures and Christian faith. People from many different denominations have participated in Disciple Bible Studies. Friends and family are always welcome. As a special bonus, the Disciple Bible class will have the opportunity to: • Visit a mosque or hear from an Imam in conjunction with learning about the stories of Hagar and Ishmael • Visit a synagogue or hear from a Rabbi as we learn about Jesus’ life as a Jew • Hear a special presentation about the three Abrahamic religions Register on-line at manchesterumc.org/disciple, by calling Marilyn Wooden at 636-200-4709, or at the Faith Formation table on Sundays beginning July 14.
REGISTER NOW 10 | MANCHESTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Scan this QR Code or visit manchesterumc.org to sign-up.
FAITH FORMATION CLASS LISTINGS
Faith formation classes are designed to offer stimulating discussion on a variety of topics. Visit manchesterumc.org/smallgroups for a complete listing of classes and meeting times.
SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER BOOK STUDY: IF TODAY IS ALL I HAVE Sunday, July 28 | 4:30-6 p.m. | Room 141 | Healthy snacks provided. Led by Bonnie Nordyke If Today Is All I Have recounts the remarkable true story of Linda Hambleton’s life, love, sickness, blindness, death, resuscitation, hope and ultimate peace. This inspirational story can be described as “ER meets Touched by an Angel,” and the book recently won the Christian Small Publisher “Book of the Year” for biographies. Bonnie (Linda’s mother, sister to MUMC member Peggy Avery and aunt to MUMC member Becky Boland Seger) will be here to share inspiration from her daughter with all individuals and families who are affected by a chronic illness. Books ($15) may be purchased at the Faith Formation Table beginning June 30. To register, please contact Marilyn Wooden at marilyn.wooden@manchesterumc. org or at 636-200-4709.
Sunday Groups
Begins August 18 Disciple 1 9 – 11 a.m. | led by Brad Miller Disciple 4* 6 – 8 p.m. | led by Jim Warsaw
Tuesday Group
Begins August 20 Disciple 1 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. | led by Debbie Irving
Wednesday Groups
Begins August 21 Disciple 1 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. | led by Bruce Vendt Disciple 1 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. | led by Steve Powell Disciple 2* 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. | led by Karen Yeomans *Please note that Disciple 1 is a prerequisite for all other DBS classes. Scan the QR code on the left, or visit our website to register or learn more.
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CIRCLE OF FRIENDS
SUMMER FUN
Children sing in music class during Circle of Friends Summer Session 1: “The Great Outdoors.”
Flowers created by children in Circle of Friends Summer Session 1: “The Great Outdoors.”
Children pretend to be butterflies with butterfly wings they created in Circle of Friends Summer Session 1: “The Great Outdoors.” Visit manchesterumc.org/circleoffriends or call Kandace Herring at 636.200.4718 to learn more about class sessions. A bird’s nest and egg created by a child participating in Circle of Friends Summer Session 1: “The Great Outdoors.” 12 | MANCHESTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Manchester
A LOOK AHEAD:
UNITED METHODIST YOUTH
Sixth Grade Boot Camp BY CARRIE WING Every August, Ryan Langeland, MUMC’s Youth Director, hosts a fun-filled kick-off event in the parking lot of MUMC. This year the event will be held on Sunday, August 11 from 6 to 8 p.m. We will talk about new Small Group opportunities for the fall, including “demonstrations” from some groups about Fall activities. Expect:
I
ncoming sixth graders are too young to attend Spirit Camp. Incoming sophomores are too old to be Spirit Camp campers and too young to be Spirit Camp counselors. And frankly, they were feeling a little left out. We thought of a perfect solution: This summer, sophomores will teach a “course” to incoming sixth graders on “Everything You Need to Know about Manchester United Methodist Youth. “
• Manicures from the Hairy Cookie girls • Media Club to take portraits • Space Invaders battle
Felicia
Boot Camp starts on Sunday, July 28, at 5 p.m. A light dinner will be served, followed by a parents-included informational session from 5-7 p.m. A notary will be present to notarize health forms; forms will be good for the 2013-2014 school year.
with the Videogamers
Students will then spend an overnight on Sunday to get a taste of a lock-in experience. Their counselors will teach them the games and songs that are standard practices at Sunday night Youth Group. They will go “crazy bowling” on Monday morning, and do service work for Circle of Concern on Monday afternoon. They will be released from MUMC around 5 p.m.
Program
They’ll return Tuesday evening, July 30, from 6-8:30 p.m. when they will get a sampling of various small groups (Media Club, Hairy Cookies, Videogamers) and have more practice for games and songs.
To learn more about
Sixth graders must register by July 14. This is a really good way to get comfortable before joining MUMY in August. Email carrie.wing@manchesterumc.org if you are interested.
• the
Information
about
Student
Mentor
• Parents learn about MUMY policies • An overview of events
the youth ministry, visit manchesterumc. org/youth or call 636.200.4710.
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MANCHESTER UMC
WOMEN’S CONNECTION
United Methodist Women are a community of women eager to make a difference for Christ in the world. Women, young and old, enjoy retreats, knitting, aerobics, and lots of other fun activities! Twice a year, women get away for an evening or a weekend to grow in their relationship with God. Retreats are usually held at the Marianist Retreat Center in Eureka, MO, or the Mercy Center in Frontenac, MO. There are many ways to connect. Take a look at the listings below to learn more.
SANDWICH MINISTRY HELPING THE BRIDGE STL
Each Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. , the Sandwich Ministry meets at MUMC to make sandwiches for The Bridge. Since they’ve been in ministry, they’ve made 26,000 sandwiches (imagine more than two miles long).
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Aerobics
Prayer Shawls
Bi-weekly aerobics sessions will keep you in shape. Stop by every Tuesday and Thursday morning from 9-10 a.m., for a heartpounding workout. Mats and weights are provided, but you should bring a water bottle and wear loose-fitting clothes. Classes are just $10 for 8 sessions, and childcare is available for $2. Call Corrine at 636.200.4732 for more information.
Every third Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m., women get together to knit beautiful shawls. We pray with them and then pass them on to those who need the prayers at hospitals, nursing homes, and other places where people hurt. Call 636.394.7506 to learn more.
Coffee Hour Help set-up and clean up coffee and donuts between Sunday services. Call 636.394.7506 to learn more.
Quilters The Mary Martha Quilters meet each Monday at 9 a.m., in room 222. Call 636.394.7506 to learn more. For a complete listing of women’s ministries, visit manchesterumc.org > Adults > Women.
FALL SESSION SCHEDULE September 10, 2013 Kickoff and Spiritual Disciplines I Rev. Greg Weeks, Rev. Stephanie Lendt September 17, 2013 Leading Through Prayer and Devotion Debbie Irving, Susan Miller, Panel October 1, 2013 Servant Leadership I Susie Lashly, Mike Clement October 15, 2013 Servant Leadership II Susie Lashly, Mike Clement Christian Leadership College (CLC) is an inspiring convergence of United Methodist thinkers, doers, change-agents and emerging leaders. CLC meets twice a month from September through April and involves preparation outside of class.
November 5, 2013 Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts Kelly Vincent
This spiritually based course of study teaches and develops fundamental Christian leadership skills. Focus areas include spiritual disciplines, spiritual gifts, church organization, evangelism, group dynamics, servant leadership, and discerning your personal calling. Class participants are nominated by a leader, or have the option to self-nominate.
November 19, 2013 United Methodist Church I Rev. Nancye Dunlap
Christian Leadership College Graduates: • Grow in personal faith • Grow in understanding and practice of spiritual disciplines • Gain a deeper understanding of their calling to Christian leadership • Understand the organizational structure, mission and ministries of the United • Methodist Church • Be equipped to serve as a Christian leader • Be on a path to discern his or her unique call to servant leadership
December 10, 2013 United Methodist Church II Rev. Nancye Dunlap Visit manchesterumc.org/clc for a complete schedule.
If you are interested in joining CLC or nominating someone, please visit manchesterumc.org/clc. Once an interest or nomination form is approved, registration is open with a session fee of $99.
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CLERGY & PROGRAM STAFF
Have a question or a need? Contact Manchester UMC staff at firstname.lastname@manchesterumc.
Greg Weeks
Stephanie Lendt
Nancye Dunlap
Beth Elders
Jennifer Finley
Phil Estes
Debra Irving
Cartiay McCoy
Sally Cleveland
Kandace Herring
Ryan Langeland
Jen White
Kevin McBeth
Sherry Boland
Lori Borger
Will Brinkhorst
John Cargile
Mary Pettit
Senior Pastor 636.200.4703
Director of Faith Formation 636.200.4720
Director of Music 636.200.4712
Associate Pastor 636.200.4705
Director of Communications 636.200.4749
Handbell Program Director 636.200.4733
Associate Pastor 636.200.4704
Director of Children’s Worship & Nursery 636.200.4707
Director of Drama Ministry and Children’s Music Ministry 636.200.4716
Director of Outreach and Missions 636.200.4724
Circle of Friends (Preschool) Director 636.200.4718
Audio / Visual Coordinator 636.200.4741
Director of Children & Family Ministry 636.200.4731
Director of Youth Ministries 636.200.4735
Director of Administration 636.200.4706
New Member Coordinator 636.200.4734
Finance Director 636.200.4722
Organist/Music Associate 636.200.4728
VISIT MANCHESTERUMC.ORG TO LEARN MORE. DOWNLOAD THE
MUMC CONNECT APP
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