the Difference magazine by ManchesterUMC

AUGUST 2013 AUGUST 2013

the

magazine

Fall Kickoff Unique Ways to Connect this Fall

SIGNS OF GROWING CHARACTER BY CARTIAY MCCOY CHARACTER DEFINED Character is defined as the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual, or the distinctive nature of something. Synonyms include nature, personality, temper, and disposition. CHRISTIAN CHARACTER The Book of Genesis says that God created man in his own image. As Christians, I believe this means that the morally correct thing to do is reflect the character of our creator. Galatians 5:22-23 best describes it this way - “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control; against such things there is no law.” (ESV) THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT The fruit of the Spirit can be our barometer for growing character. This month, let’s take the time to examine how we share love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control through God’s grace. Growing in life and character reminds me of taking tests. Some of the most difficult situations in my life required me to display Christian character, which often times was not convenient. At times, I failed. When I did, I found myself taking the same “test” again until I was ready to move on. Another thing to remember is that we never arrive. We are always “pressing towards the mark of God’s high calling.” (Philippians 3:14). 2 | MANCHESTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

There are many things kicking off this Fall! Many of our program areas have new and exciting sessions, classes, seminars, and groups to get involved with. Children can enjoy NEW elective Sunday School classes. Take a look at page 5 to find out how children will learn Bible stories through hands-on activities. On August 11, Manchester United Methodist Youth host their annual ministry kickoff. Youth from sixth through twelfth grades, and their parents, can enjoy learning about youth small groups, and the Fall calendar of events. A plethora of adult small groups and classes are forming! Take a look at pages 6-7, and 10-11 for a listing of Bible studies, women’s and men’s groups, video screenings and more. Throughout the month of August, we have the pleasure of hearing two sermon series: Toxic Charity by Rev. Stephanie Lendt, and Growing Character by Pastor Greg Weeks. There are so many ways to grow and connect. 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

THIS FALL, I LOOK FORWARD TO ...

04 TOXIC CHARITY SERMONS & SEMINAR

05 “I look forward to beautiful fall colors and welcoming a new family member.“

“I’m looking forward to falling leaves.” —Chris Mann Maintenance Supervisor

—Mary Pettit Finance Director

Manchester United Methodist Church

NEW CHILDREN’S SUNDAY SCHOOL

06 ADULT SMALL GROUPS & CLASSES

13 MANCHESTER UNITED METHODIST YOUTH KICKOFF

129 Woods Mill Rd. Manchester, MO 63011 www.manchesterumc.org | 636.394.7506 MANCHESTERUMC.ORG | 3

Connection

SPOTLIGHT

CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP COLLEGE

Join Rev. Stephanie Lendt in worship Saturdays, August 3 and 10 (5 p.m. in the Chapel), and Sundays, August 4 and 11 (8, 9:30, and 11 a.m. in the Sanctuary), for the Toxic Charity sermon series. Toxic Charity Small Groups Mondays, Sept. 9 – Sept. 30 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. Barnes and Noble West County Ctr. Wednesdays, Sept. 11 – Oct. 2 6:30-7:30 p.m. | MUMC Room 141

PROVIDE LASTING CHANGE FOR PEOPLE IN POVERTY Meet author, Robert D. Lupton in a one-day seminar

Saturday, OCTOBER 5 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. $20 (includes lunch) www.umocm.com/toxic 4 | MANCHESTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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. This spiritually-based course of study teaches and develops fundamental Christian leadership skills. Class participants are nominated by a leader, or have the option to selfnominate.

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 Submit an interest form or refer someone at manchesterumc.org/clc. Email questions to clc@ manchesterumc.org or call 636.394.7506

BY REV. JENNIFER FINLEY

hat does cooking have to do with the Book of Genesis? What does Abraham have to do with Legos?

Beginning September 8, children at Manchester UMC will find out through a new, exciting way of doing Sunday School! Sunday School is a place for all children, ages 2 through 5th grade, to learn the story of God’s love, connect their own experiences to the biblical stories, and find a place to belong. This year, the following classes will meet each Sunday morning from 9:30 to10:30 a.m. Pre-school Two-year olds, three-year olds, and four-year olds explore Bible stories each week to GROW in faith, learn to PROCLAIM God’s love through their actions, and learn to SERVE God through hands-on activities in agespecific classrooms.

Elementary - Choose your own adventure All elementary students dive deep into one Bible story each month through a course of their own choosing. Some courses are designed for younger children (K-2nd) and some for older children (3rd-5th). Through various electives, children explore the same Bible story and memory verse each month. Once a month, all classes gather together for a time of worship and celebration to share what they have learned and created. Children will be in the same class September-December, and will be able to choose elective classes for January-May.

FALL COURSES INCLUDE: K–2nd grade: Cooking, outdoor adventure, visual arts Deep Blue Kids: Just for 3rd graders: Third grade students receive Bibles during worship on August 18. Beginning with a Bible Fair on September 8, children embark on a semester long adventure of exploring how to read and use the Bible. Third graders will participate in elective classes beginning in January 2014. 4th – 5th grade: Legos, drama/visual arts, puppets For full class descriptions, additional information, and online registration, go to www.manchesterumc.org/childrenssundayschool. Enrollment begins August 4. While there will be space for all children, each class will have a maximum number.

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ADULT SMALL GROUPS

Find unique ways to connect with others! Small group listings are available for all ages and serve a variety of interests.

Singles Sundays, 11 a.m. – noon | Room 309 We are continuing the video series on Acts which uses the exact wording of the NIV Bible. Class members are single adults who are mostly over 55 years of age. Following the class, many enjoy going to lunch at various restaurants.

Women’s Book Study

Monday, Sept. 9 | 7 - 8:30 p.m. | Room 222 Our book this autumn will be This Child Will Be Great: Memoir of a Remarkable Life by Africa’s First Woman President by Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Please come with the book read. Friends and family are always welcome.

Women’s Bible Study Tuesdays beginning Sept. 10 – Nov. 26 | 9:30 - 11 a.m. | Room 222 Join us as we delve into the Old Testament this semester. We’ll begin with a look at the early monarchy using the Immersion Bible Study. Classes include (Wednesdays beginning Sept. 11 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Room 221 ) (Thursdays beginning Sept. 12 | 9:30 – 11 a.m. | Room 222) Childcare is available with advance registration. Book fee: $6.

Men’s Bible Study Saturdays | 8 - 9 a.m. | Room 141 All men are invited to dive into new Scriptures each week as we ask what each passage says and means, and why it’s important to our lives. Lessons are emailed ahead of time. Beginning in September, we will be studying the book of Psalms. Copies are also available each Saturday morning. Coffee provided. Presented by the United Methodist Men. Led by Rev. Steve Harbaugh

Scan this QR Code or visit manchesterumc.org to sign-up.

ADULT FAITH FORMATION

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.

BIBLE STUDY CLASSES HEAVEN: THREE PERSPECTIVES 2nd Wednesdays: Sept. 11, Oct. 9, Nov. 13 | 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. | Fireside Room (by the Sanctuary We will explore the subject of heaven from three different perspectives. Attend one or all sessions. Sept. 11 -- Heaven Is for Real by Todd and Colton Burpo from the perspective of a child. Oct. 9 -- Waking Up in Heaven by Crystal McVea who is a teacher. Nov. 13 -- Proof of Heaven by Dr. Eben Alexander, a neurosurgeon. Please come with the book read. Sessions will be facilitated by Trish Gunby.

EMBRACING THE PROPHETS Sundays, Sept 22. - Oct. 27 | 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. | Room 312 Join Rev. Nancye Dunlap for Embracing the Prophets in Contemporary Culture: Walter Brueggemann on Confronting Today’s Pharaohs. From the publisher: “Brueggemann, arguably America’s leading Old Testament scholar . . . takes us on a wild ride drawing connections between Israel’s sociological, economic and spiritual status and that of America today.” Book fee: $10.

LIFE STAGES & FELLOWSHIP CLASSES MAKING MARRIAGE WORK Sundays, Sept. 8 – Oct. 27 | 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. | Room 309 Dr. John Gottman has revolutionized the study of relationships. As a professor of psychology and founder/director of the Seattle Marital and Family Institute, he has studied the habits of couples in detail for nearly four decades. Come learn about Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work to recognize positive and encouraging ideas for how to safeguard and improve relationships. This is an opportunity to learn how to strengthen relationship connections broadly; not limited to married couples. Individuals and couples are welcome. Led by Mary Beth Harper. Book fee: $12 per household.

Todd and Mary Beth Harper have been members of MUMC for ten years. Mary Beth has been a Marriage and Family Therapist for over twenty years and Todd has been an engineer at Boeing for over twenty-four years. Todd and Mary Beth have been married for ten years and have a wonderful three-year-old son, Connor.

INTERNET FAMILY HISTORY CLASS 2nd & 4th Wednesdays beginning Sept. 11 | 7 – 8:30 p.m. | Room 118 Bring your laptop and your desire to find your ancestors. (WI-FI available) You will learn family history hands-on while researching your own family. Leader Rob Meinert brings 14 years of genealogy experience to the class, and offers you a chance to know your ancestors.

PRE-MEMBER CLASS Sundays, Sept. 8 & 15 | 5 - 8 p.m. | Room 141 Those interested in joining Manchester UMC, or current members who want a refresher, are invited to attend this 2-week session. This class provides a great place to meet people, get to know more about Christianity and United Methodism, and to find out how to get plugged into our programs and service ministry. Dinner is provided. Childcare provided with advance registration. Contact Jen White at jen.white@manchesterumc.org or 636-200-4734 to learn more.

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Thursday

AUGUST

Friday

2013

Tuesday

Vacation Bible School at Kingdom House

Monday

Wednesday

Vacation Bible School at Kingdom House

Thursday

Circle of Friends Parent Orientation

Monday

Friday

7 p.m. - 9 a.m. Mid-High Boys Lock-In

8 | MANCHESTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Saturday

Sunday Sunday Worship Sanctuary 8 a.m. (Traditional) 9:30 a.m. (Contemporary) 02 11 a.m. (Traditional)

Monday

Vacation Bible School at Kingdom House

Disciple Bible Registration

Friday

Vacation Bible School at Kingdom House

Saturday Sneakers with Soul Distribution at Peabody Elementary

Sunday Youth Fall Kickoff 6- 8:30 p.m.

Sunday Worship Sanctuary 8 a.m. (Traditional) 9:30 a.m. (Contemporary) 11 a.m. (Traditional)

Friday

Saturday

Circle of Friends Parent/Child Visits

Sunday Sunday Worship Sanctuary 8 a.m. (Traditional) 9:30 a.m. (Contemporary) 11 a.m. (Traditional)

Kindergartners and 3rd Graders receive Bibles at 11:00 a.m.

Saturday United Methodist Women Mini-Missions School

Monday

24 26

Sunday Worship Sanctuary 8 a.m. (Traditional) 9:30 a.m. (Contemporary) 11 a.m. (Traditional)

Sunday

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sunday School Kickoff

Saturday Spirit Camp Red Cross Blood Drive 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Room 133

MANCHESTERUMC.ORG | 9

ADULT CLASS LISTINGS, CONTINUED

BIBLE STUDY CLASSES SUNDAY MORNINGS AT BREAD CO. Sundays beginning September 8 | 8:15 – 9 a.m. St. Louis Bread Co. |14560 Manchester Road Grab a cup of coffee, and a favorite pastry, then join in a discussion of current events that links how we live as United Methodists with what’s happening in our world.

ALPHA CLASS

Did you know that Manchester UMC has a weekly schedule available at the welcome center each Sunday, and online at manchesterumc.org/ schedule? Bookmark the page on your smart phone for quick access to meeting times and classrooms.

Sundays, Beginning August 25 | 9:30-10:30 a.m.| Room 311 If you have ever wondered how Christianity went from twelve disciples to a multitude of denominations and a worldwide religion, this is the study you’ve been waiting for. Using DVDs filmed on locations around the world, with narration by lively Oxford history professor Diarmaid MacCulloch, this is a study that will add insights to how we arrived at today’s Church.

JOY Sundays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. | Room 141 Using the Adult Bible Study series, produced by the Methodist publishing house, our study theme for autumn will be Creation – First Things. We will be exploring Genesis, Exodus and Psalm 104 as part of this topic.

HARVEST Sundays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. | Room 221 During September, we will be finishing Adam Hamilton’s study, The Way: Following in the Footsteps of Jesus. In this study, we are given a virtual tour of the places that shaped the ministry of Jesus as we explore the lands and cultural conditions that frame the messages of Jesus. Sponsored by the Harvest Class. All are welcome any week.

SOJOURNERS Sundays, 9:30–10:30 a.m. | Room 219 Study of Luke and Acts - This is a “go deeper” study to examine the Gospel story from Luke’s perspective and the triumphs and struggles faced by the church in the first century A.D.

Scan this QR Code or visit manchesterumc.org/smallgroups to sign-up.

SERVICE & SOCIAL JUSTICE TOXIC CHARITY Mondays, Sept. 9 – Sept. 30 | 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. | Barnes and Noble West County Center OR Wednesdays, Sept. 11 – Oct. 2 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Room 141 Robert D. Lupton, author of Toxic Charity will be at MUMC on Oct 5 for an all-day workshop. Join others the weeks before his visit to read and discuss this important book. Lupton’s concern is that the very charity meant to help the impoverished actually has the opposite effect. He proposes new models for churches that correct this problem. Monday group led by Debbie McWard. Wednesday group led by Revs. Beth Elders and Stephanie Lendt. Book fee: $9.

MOVIE & DISCUSSION: A PLACE AT THE TABLE Sunday, Sept. 15 | 6:30 p.m. | Room 133 This recent documentary examines the plight of fifty million people in the U.S. – one in four children – who don’t know where their next meal is coming from. A Place at the Table shows us how hunger poses serious economic, social and cultural implications for our nation. It is a problem that could be solved once and for all if the American public decides that making healthy food available and affordable is in the best interest of us all. Co-sponsored by Kingdom House.

POVERTY BANQUET Sunday, Sept. 22 | Noon – 2:30 p.m.| Fellowship Hall This luncheon will enable participants to view poverty from different angles in an experiential setting. Participants will be guided in reflection and conversations surrounding issues of poverty and food security. Led by Rev. Ken Gottman and Kenneth Pruitt.

SPIRITUAL PRACTICES DEVOTIONAL WRITING Wednesdays, Sept. 11 – Sept. 25 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Room 311 Learn how to use images and stories from your life to create spiritual resources for yourself and others. Led by Rev. Greg Weeks.

“I’ve gained lifelong friends from participating in small groups. Not only will you engage in stimulating discussion, but you will connect in deeper ways than you can on Sundays.” —MUMC small group participant

LIFE STAGES & FELLOWSHIP CLASSES FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY Sundays, Sept. 8 – Nov. 3 | 6:30 - 8 p.m. | Room 223 OR Wednesdays, Sept. 11 – Nov. 6 | 6:30 - 8 p.m. | Room 223 Financial Peace University (FPU) is a 9-week program that instructs individuals and families on how to eliminate debt, save for the future and give back to their communities. It was designed by Dave Ramsey. Over a million families nationwide have paid off $5,300 in debt and saved up to $2,700 in the first 90 days of class. Materials fee per household is $95.

MANCHESTERUMC.ORG | 11

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS FUN RUN

Lace up your sneakers! The Circle of Friends Preschool will hold its third annual Fun Run, Saturday, September 28, at 10 a.m. at Schroeder Park. All proceeds from the Fun Run will benefit Circle of Friends Preschool. Events include a non-competitive 5K Run/Walk, multiple kids runs, BBQ for sale, the West County fire truck to explore and so much more! On-line registration begins August 1, by going to manchesterumc. org/funrun. Adults are $20, youth are $10, and household registration is capped at $50. Register by September 3, and receive a Fun Run T-shirt! Sponsorship is also available by calling the preschool at 636394-6867.

12 | MANCHESTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

MANCHESTER UNITED METHODIST YOUTH

KICKOFF

A LOOK AHEAD:

BY CARRIE WING

Felicia

f you are a student in grades six through twelve, or the parents of a student in this age group, you must plan to attend the Manchester United Methodist Youth Annual Kick Off! This fun-filled and informative event will be held in the parking lot of MUMC on Sunday, August 11, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. (Please note the change in end-time.) We will accept health forms that night and since MUMC health forms require notarization, we will have several notaries present. Once your student’s notarized health form is on file, it is good for one year. Ryan Langeland, MUMC’s Youth Director, will conduct a parent meeting where he will cover behavior policies, cell phone usage while attending MUMY events, and other rules.

Student Mentor Dinner

We will tell you about our Student Mentor program, Confirmation, and a new group called the Youth Welcome Team. Debbie Irving, Director of Faith Formation, is planning to create several new MUMC parent support groups this fall and there will be a group for parents of middle school students and another for parents of high-schoolers.

Sunday, August 4

And finally, let me not forget that we will have games and art activities, snow cones and popcorn outside!

Friday, August 23 to

To learn more about the youth ministry, visit manchesterumc.org/youth or call 636.200.4710.

6 p.m.

MUMY Kick-Off Sunday, August 11 6 to 8:30 p.m.

Mid-High Boys’ Lock-In

Saturday, August 24 7 p.m. Friday to 9 a.m. Saturday

Habitat for Humanity Saturday, September 14 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Spirit Camp Reunion

Felicia Gonski, Coach of Small Groups, and some of our students, will show you our Small Group opportunities with lots of booths set up in Fellowship Hall, including “demonstrations” from some of our MUMY groups. You might expect to get a manicure from the Hairy Cookies girls, have your portrait taken by someone in Media Club, or eat a snack baked by Cooking For a Cause.

Sunday, October 6

Carrie Wing, Coordinator of Youth Communication and Hospitality, will show you around the Youth page of MUMC’s website, remind you about how fact-filled our weekly MUMY eNews is, and orient you to the new MUMC phone app that is scheduled to debut later this fall.

Festival of Sharing trip

During Youth Group

Three-Church Lock-In Friday, October 11 to Saturday, October 12 8 p.m. Friday to 10 a.m. Saturday at MUMC

Friday, October 18 to Saturday, October 19 5 p.m. Friday to 4 p.m. Saturday

MANCHESTERUMC.ORG | 13

MISSION & OUTREACH Mark your calendars for Fall Faith in Action service events. Perfect for individuals, or for the entire familly.

14 | MANCHESTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

A LOOK AHEAD -

FALL SERVING OPPORTUNITIES GROCERY STORE FOOD DRIVE: Saturday, September 7

Manchester UMC volunteers will visit area grocery stores to solicit food donations to benefit Circle of Concern and Kingdom House.  Volunteers of all ages and abilities are welcome. This is a great family-friendly service opportunity.

FALL FOOD DRIVE: September 1 - September 30

Bring in non-perishable food donations to benefit the food pantries of Kingdom House and Shalom House. Drop off your donations at the Faith in Action table in the Main Narthex on Sunday mornings or anytime throughout the week. Small Groups and families can sponsor one Sunday of the food drive! Your group would: • Receive food donations • Sort and box all donations  • Help load the filled boxes into vans for transport to Kingdom House   • Unload all boxes at Kingdom House   • Have lunch at Kingdom House   • Stock the shelves of the food pantry with food donations Volunteers of all ages and abilities are welcome. This is a great family-friendly service opportunity.

FOOD STAMP CHALLENGE: September 8 - 14

The Food Stamp Challenge is a commitment to live on the food budget of the average food stamp recipient for one week. Participants will receive info on the challenge and reflect upon their experiences on Manchester UMC’s website. This is an independent experience, allowing participants to participate in their homes and reflect on their experiences online. The nationwide average monthly benefit is $133.79, which breaks down to approximately $31.50/week, $4.50/day, or $1.50/meal. Can you shop and eat on this budget for a week? Watch for information at www. manchesterumc.org/fia.

PASSPORT TO SERVING Are you looking for a way to make a difference in the lives of others beyond donating and volunteering? Manchester UMC has tons of ways for you and your family to serve others over the next 6 months! From one-time service opportunities to shortterm and year-round opportunities, there’s a way for you to lend a hand. Pick up a copy of the new Passport to Serving at the Faith in Action table or the Welcome Center on Sundays to take the next steps in your journey of service.

To volunteer, or to learn more about any service oportunity, visit manchesterumc.org/ fia or call Beth Elders at 636.200.4724.

POVERTY BANQUET: Sunday, September 22 | 12 - 2:30 p.m.

A Poverty Banquet is a tool that enables participants to view poverty from different angles in an experiential setting. Participants will be guided in reflection and conversations surrounding issues of poverty and food security over lunch.

See pages 4 and 11 for information about Toxic Charity and a special documentary viewing.

MANCHESTERUMC.ORG | 15

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

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