TLC Magazine Issue 4, Winter 2023

MAGAZINE

Winter 2023 Volume 1 / Issue 4

"But at the right time, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law."

-Galations 4:4

Our church staff is here to help all generations experience true life change with Jesus.

Feel free to contact them.

PHONE 217.793.9760 WWW.SPRINGFIELDFIRST.ORG

PASTORAL STAFF Dr. Roger Grimmett | Lead Pastor Rev. Justin Snider | Pastor

MINISTRY STAFF Allison Means | Director of Worship Arts Brennan Pappas | Director of Technical Arts Carli Burton | Director of Senior Ministries Kacey Belitsos | EarlyLife & Preschool Director Kelsie Fairfull | KidLife Director Dr. See Tsai Chan | Associate Director of Music Ministry Sharon Sweeney | Director of Connections Sydney Pappas | StudentLife Director

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Bob Dodd | Executive Director Dara Bose | Accountant & Publications/Social Media Manager Dayton Emery | Technical Arts Assistant/Video Producer Jenny Hutcherson | Financial Administrator Josh Groves | Facilities Manager Kathy Kerr | Administrative Assistant Michael Howard | Print Shop Sally Howard | Executive Assistant

custodial STAFF

Prayer: Showing up and Giving Attention One of the core values of Springfield First is Mindful Prayer. Prayer is a key element of our life together. And prayer takes time. Without time, there is no prayer. Prayer is one way we arrange the time we are given each day by God. The descriptive word "mindful" we attach to this core value means that prayer is something we are present and attentive to. In our culture today, “mindfulness” is a trendy word used by some to describe practices of awareness, focus, and meditation. And some of these practices can be very helpful. But we are using the word mindful to talk about the intentional practice of dwelling in the presence of God. Prayer is literally mindful: it requires our attention to God, our awareness of God, and our faith in God. British theologian and pastor Sam Wells writes,

Prayer is the first event of the day. Not necessarily the first thing a person does on awaking, but the first event that makes a day more than merely survival, that points to the source and destiny of all things, that makes a person aware that they are not a self-creator and self-redeemer. The presence of the disciple before God is a recognition that God is present before them at every moment in the power of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, presence in prayer is the disciple’s acknowledgment in body, mind, and spirit of the Holy Spirit’s constant presence. (Samuel Wells, Incarnational Ministry, 25) And yet, prayer often seems daunting, unappealing, or tiresome to us. We do not know “how to pray as we should,” to quote the Apostle Paul. But the great gift we have in prayer is the deep knowledge that God is with us. This simple, profound reality is enough to change the moments of our days. Prayer changes how we live, even if at first the change is modest, not because we ourselves are driving the change, but because God is somehow at work in us. This may be why I’ve never met a person who regretted the time they spent in prayer. They may have felt that the prayer didn’t “do much” for them, but they don’t regret it. And those who stick with–and continue to develop–a life of prayer find that their relationship with God enters more deeply into their hearts.

If you are seeking a way to begin or restart a life of prayer, it might be helpful to think about two things: being present and paying attention. Being present means showing up. It means taking the time to pray. Write it in your calendar, set an alert on your phone, make a note on your dashboard, or whatever in your life helps you to show up to prayer. Then, pay attention. This requires practice because we get distracted easily, and that’s ok. We simply return our attention to the task of prayer again and again. Of course, prayer is how we lift up to God the concerns we have for ourselves and for others, but it is also one powerful way we are shaped into the people God created us to be. Prayer is one of God’s great pathways of true life change.

Payton Washum | Custodian Renoldo Gayton | Lead Custodian

STAFF emails: First initial and Last name@springfieldfirst.org

2

TRUE LIFE CHANGE - MAGAZINE

Justin Snider | Pastor

From Emptiness to Abundance: A Journey of God's Patience and Love God is sooooo patient!

As a child I grew up unchurched and was still unchurched when I turned 50. Although I was aware of God, I didn't know Him or have any kind of relationship with Him.

A Sunday Morning Ritual: Finding Connection, Community, and Worship For me, attending church is not just a weekly obligation; it's a ritual that I cherish. I make it a point to arrive early, seeking solace in the quiet moments before the service begins. It's during this time that I connect with my Father, my heart open to His love and reassurance. This early solitude sets the stage for what will undoubtedly become a day filled with spiritual connection and community.

The words of the songs tell a story of Jesus' constant love for us and His sacrifice to erase our sins through a relationship with Him. So many of the songs describe my journey to finally open my heart and let my healing begin.

As the church family starts to trickle in, my happiness grows, and I eagerly greet each member. Our pastors are actively engaged, mingling, and ensuring everyone feels genuinely welcomed.

The sense of community is palpable, and the anticipation for the upcoming service builds.

The atmosphere transforms as our fabulously talented worship band takes the stage, setting the tone for a dynamic and uplifting service. The opening prayer, led by Allison, gathers us in unity before the music fills the room. It's a beautiful sight – everyone smiling, singing, clapping their hands – a collective expression of joy and gratitude.

Feeling the Spirit move within me, I raise my hand in honor of Him, joining the congregation in a celebration of faith. The pastors then deliver their sermon, and there are moments when I feel as though the message was tailored just for me. It's a reminder of the personal connection that can be found within the broader church community.

As the service concludes, I eagerly anticipate the next Sunday, knowing that the ritual of arriving early, finding connection, and experiencing the power of worship will once again fill my heart with gratitude. See you soon, church family – I can't wait for the next Sunday to come.

-Patti Fricke

When I turned 50, I started feeling an "emptiness" about my lack of personal value, my life, and even what would happen to me when I died. I didn't know how to understand this emptiness or how to fill it.

One evening I went out to dinner with an old friend. We got to talking about what I was feeling. She was not a member of Springfield First but was attending the divorce recovery group, and also attended worship services. She invited me to join her at a service.

Little did I know how much my life would change! I saw the love of God in others around me and found out He loved me, too! He forgave me of my sins, my many shortcomings, and my failures.

He also taught me how to live a better life by believing in Him instead of the world, by turning all situations over to Him, and by loving others more than myself.

Over the last 23 years, I have seen many examples of His grace and mercy, His love and forgiveness (I needed a lot of that, and sometimes still do!), and His protection and blessings (too many to list!).

In hindsight, as I learned more about Him, I saw His presence far back in my past even though I wasn't aware of Him. It is impossible to imagine where I would be today without Him in my life.

Praises belong to you, God. Thank you!

-Betsy Hanley

Finding Home and Community: A Journey to Springfield First Sharon and I were employed at Moultrie Independent Telephone Company (MITCO), a small telephone and internet company based in Lovington, Illinois. MITCO was a member of the Illinois Independent Telephone Association (IITA), which frequently held meetings and workshops in Springfield, Illinois.

I attended one of these meetings in November 2006 and sat with some seminar presenters during our luncheon. They lived in Springfield, and the conversation turned to some of the positive attributes of their community. I shared with them that Sharon and I hoped to relocate to Springfield when we retired.

I explained that we wanted to live closer to our oldest daughter and her family. We also wanted closer access to restaurants, parks, continuing education opportunities, medical facilities, and other services. I explained that we lived in a small rural community and the amenities I mentioned required a significant commute. I also expressed our interest in the opportunity for a larger selection of churches to attend.

One gentleman asked me what we were looking for in a church.

I responded that, for myself, I hoped to join a church that was truly ecumenical in its approach to ministry. I was interested in a church that accepted people from various backgrounds seeking a new or even first-time faith experience.

Even though neither of these gentlemen attended church, they were eager to offer a few recommendations. One mentioned hearing “great things” about First United Methodist Church (Springfield First). Two other churches were mentioned. I didn’t say anything about those because we had previously visited both in the past year on weekend trips to see family.

I discussed this conversation with Sharon that evening after returning home. We looked up First United Methodist Church online and were impressed. Unfortunately, we didn’t have a good opportunity to visit the church.

In 2016, MITCO sold, and we started our own business. Sharon worked for the Moultrie County Assessment Office for 4 years until she decided to retire in 2021. We had worked and lived through the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the spring of 2021, with the encouragement of our adult children, we decided it was time to move to Springfield.

There were months of preparing to sell our Lovington home, packing up our belongings, and making frequent trips to Springfield to look at houses without any success. On September 10, 2021, we put our belongings in storage and moved into a rented duplex across from Washington Park in Springfield.

4

TRUE LIFE CHANGE - MAGAZINE

That very afternoon, we looked at a house that fit our criteria.

God is so good; it was the right house for us in a perfect location close to our daughter and her family (including our four granddaughters). A month later, we moved into our new home.

A few days after moving in, while driving around to familiarize ourselves with the area, we saw Springfield First. We were delighted to find that it was very close to our house.

Unfortunately, COVID-19 was still a major concern, even though we were both fully vaccinated.

We again looked at Springfield First's user-friendly (upgraded) website, which offers helpful information about the church. We were delighted to discover the church offers streaming videos of their contemporary and traditional worship services. We began viewing the worship services live on Sunday mornings.

Sharon and I were so appreciative of this opportunity. We are grateful to the ministers, musicians, technical staff, and the many volunteers it takes to prepare, produce, and provide these worship services to an online audience.

In February 2023, Sharon and I began visiting Springfield First in person. Even though we didn’t know anyone at the church, we felt very comfortable attending.

The traditional service appealed to us partly because of the exceptional music program and the singing of traditional hymns.

We feel the ministers share messages that offer everyone hope, insights, and spiritual growth challenges. We have found it to be a rich and inspiring experience.

We met Sharon Sweeney, Springfield First’s Director of Connections, and she encouraged us to visit some of the available small groups. We visited the Christian Perspectives small group that meets on Sunday mornings and feel that it, and the people we’ve met there, are a perfect fit for us.

We were welcomed by the group participants and encouraged to return. We appreciate the open sharing of ideas and look forward to spending that time with these new Christian friends each Sunday.

We’ve experienced so many blessings from God through our 46 years of marriage. We now consider Springfield First another shared blessing. It’s exciting to feel that we have a church home and new opportunities for Christian service together with new friends.

-David & Sharon Cox

From Retired to Inspired: A Journey of Faith and Service through the Meals Ministry We are Dianne and Dave Johnson from Chatham, IL. We’ve been married for over 42 years and are proud parents of three grown children and two grandchildren. We’re both retired: Dave retired from the State of Illinois, and Dianne is a retired teacher.

We’ve been members of the Methodist Church for decades.

We were married in Lincoln, Illinois, at FUMC and eventually transferred to Springfield First. As time passed and our children grew older, we found ourselves attending church less frequently.

During the COVID-19 “lockdown,” we took time to truly think about our purpose in our retirement years. Daily devotions were helpful, but we still felt a little empty, like we needed something more.

So, we began watching online services at Springfield First and attending in person. The more we attended Springfield First, the more we found ourselves drawing nearer to God. Everyone is so welcoming! Pastor Roger and Pastor Justin deliver messages that inspire us. We try to carry the message with us throughout the week.

Participating in the Meals Ministry has changed our lives and faith. We feel SO appreciative and thankful for the people we serve at the homeless shelter, The joy and gratitude they display, even with the day-to-day struggles they experience, has strengthened our faith. We feel God is using us for something good.

The Meals Ministry has also impacted our lives and faith enormously in other ways. We feel more connected to the church. We’ve met wonderful people through this ministry.

It’s awe-inspiring when we think about how many people are serving God to provide these wonderful meals for those who really need them.

We’ve often heard how it takes a village. Well, we’re thankful to belong to a church community that gives generously. The monetary gifts have allowed the Meals Ministry to purchase food and supplies for so many people.

We’re fortunate to be a part of the many wonderful volunteers who help cook and serve these meals.

-Dave & Dianne Johnson

We’ve always wanted to help others in our community and make a difference. We are SO blessed and truly feel that there are ways we should give back. We have the time. There are no excuses for us.

During one of the church services, we saw Eden Lindberg speak about the Meals Ministry and helping the homeless, charities, and other organizations around the Springfield area. We knew immediately we wanted to help. This is exactly what we wanted to do. This is our calling!

We began by delivering meals to homes once a month. We have since started helping to cook meals at church and serving at the Salvation Army’s overflow shelter. We cannot tell you how much this has made our hearts grow. Everyone is so thankful for their hot meal, and we are sincerely grateful that we can help.

To serve means to let God use us in ways that will help others.

We can be kind, show empathy, and demonstrate care. We can also donate time, money, or gifts that will help others. Moreover, we can put others first before ourselves.

I read something that stood out to me from one of my daily devotions: "Serving should not be on a 'to do list.' God does not make 'to do lists.' Instead, he creates 'to BE lists.'” This is what we want to be.

If you are interested in more information on serving in our Meals Ministry, contact Eden Lindberg at telindberg98@gmail.com.

Transformation through Tithing and Divine Guidance: A Journey of Faith and Abundance My name is Jan Allen. Pastor Grimmett approached me recently and asked what led me to practice tithing. My immediate response was the typical answer: “It’s what God expects and the right thing to do.”

I began thinking about this question after I left church that day, and it led me to reflect on exactly what tithing means to me and how I came to feel the way I do.

My first thoughts went back about ten years to a discussion with Lenora, a coworker I greatly admired. Lenora was considerably younger than I but seemed to have it all figured out. She was always happy and seemed to be living her best life.

We talked many times while we were coworkers, but our discussion on this occasion led to some life-changing decisions.

We sat down, and she asked me if I was going to church anywhere. I replied that I went periodically but not regularly.

As the conversation began to wind down, she said, “Do you tithe?” I responded, “Yeah, here and there, as I can.” She then challenged me to tithe (10%). She said, “Just try it and see what happens.” My reaction was that I could do that for a while.

Then, of course, I had to sit down and figure out how that would work. Once I had done that, I decided to try it. As it turned out, this decision was a life changer. The more I practiced tithing, the more open I became, and not just about the money.

My life changed in other ways, making me realize it wasn’t only about money. It’s about trusting that God is there for me all the time. This was such an eye-opener, and I haven’t stopped tithing since.

As I continued to reflect on my life, I realized there were other times God had gotten my attention.

I recall the time 20+ years ago when a friend of mine encouraged me to attend a support group. I was four years out from a heartbreaking divorce and was still struggling to cope and move on. The group met at my friend’s church but was not religiously affiliated. However, even though it wasn’t discussed, some aspects of spirituality were evident throughout the course.

The goal of the group was for people struggling with various life aspects to help them get back on track. It was set up like an AA meeting. The “course” was 12 weeks long, and it was very intense, meeting once a week. We were required to keep a journal.

6

TRUE LIFE CHANGE - MAGAZINE

The most significant part of the program came at the end of the course when we were instructed to write ourselves a check. My check was made out to Jan Allen, and on the currency line, we were to write, “Paid in Full.” On the signature line, we were instructed to write, “Law of Abundance.”

It wasn’t clear exactly what this signified, but I knew what it meant to me. It meant that since Jesus paid it all in full for me, I had nothing to worry about. There would always be abundance, and God would take care of me. I’ve carried this check with me for 22 years now and have, for the most part, stopped worrying about money and a lot of other things in my life.

Another result from this 12-week course was that I sensed I needed to be involved in a church. I decided to try the church where the support group met because I was comfortable there.

Since the decision to attend church didn’t come to me until late that morning, I arrived late, and the parking lot was full. I began driving the streets of Springfield, looking for a church where I might feel comfortable.

I ended up in front of the church where I was baptized years before, in downtown Springfield. I was 10 to 15 minutes late, and the service had already begun. Again, the parking lot was full, but just then, a car pulled out across from the front door. I parked my car and walked into the church. I didn’t know the pastor since I hadn’t been there in a long time. I found a seat at the back behind a pillar, hoping to hide from everyone.

The pastor’s sermon was about never giving up hope. The church was very large and yet I felt like he was looking straight at me. His sermon touched me deeply and personally. When the offering plate was passed, I put $3.00 in, the only cash I had on me.

I planned to get out of the church before having to speak to anyone. The pastor was closing with prayer and about to come down the aisle. All I could think of was that I needed to beat everyone outside.

I headed out, and the pastor was already at the door waiting to greet me. The pastor simply put out his hand and said, “We’re here for you. Don’t give up hope; just keep trying.” It was so amazing. It was as if the whole thing had been planned for me that day.

Two days after this experience at the big downtown church, where I received so much more than the meager $3.00 I gave, I got a $1,000 check in the mail from a class action suit from years earlier.

Getting back to the conversation with my coworker, Lenora, when she challenged me about church and tithing, I knew I needed to be in church. My mother-in-law had been a member of Springfield First years earlier. I decided to try it and have attended here ever since.

Looking back, I now realize that these seemingly unrelated experiences have led me to where I am. I’m more aware of the little things in life that God does for me, like a good parking place when I need it, or an unexpected check in the mail. God has always known exactly what I need and is always there to meet my needs.

The support group helped me through a rough time and led me to understand that the Law of Abundance applies to me. I have full access to God’s abundance. God led me to that church 20 years ago, where I could hear the encouraging message about not giving up.

God led my coworker, Lenora, to challenge me regarding attending church and tithing, and He led me to Springfield First.

I now understand that God knows exactly what I need and will provide for me always. I’m determined to continue to tithe my money and my time. It is the least I can do since God has changed my life.

-Jan Allen

It must have been the hand of the Lord.

In January of this year, I attended our church’s Administrative Board meeting and gave a historical presentation on our eighth Resident Pastor, John P. Richmond (1844-45). At the close of the meeting, Pastor Justin commented that he had cited my prior July 9, 2022, Facebook posting on that same Pastor Richmond in his August 14, 2022, Sunday sermon, “The Message to Sardis,” a church that was outwardly alive but in reality dead.

Pastor Justin recalled looking for me at the time, and I was not there. I had not heard this sermon because I had been called away to Mesa, Arizona, to my 97-year-old father, George, in hospice care. By God’s design, my father died on the morning of Sunday, August 14, 2022, very close to the time of Pastor Justin’s sermon, as he quoted Revelation 3:5—“If you conquer, you will be clothed like them in white robes, and I will not blot your name out of the book of life; I will confess your name before my Father and before his angels.”

My July Facebook posting was one of a long succession of my postings on prior pastors that began months before. If I had not attended the January Administrative Board meeting and if I had not selected that particular history presentation for the meeting, I would never have known about Pastor Justin’s August sermon, a copy of which I have since received. I truly feel the leading of the Holy Spirit on this long string of events and am humbled by the power of God’s timing.

To paraphrase the old gospel hymn: While you were preaching, somebody touched me; it must’ve been the hand of the Lord.

-Steve Beilstein Church Historian

Unshakable Faith: A Journey of Resilience and the Power of Community The story we want to share began in 2012 with the birth of our daughter, Gwen. Gwen was born prematurely at 26 weeks and spent her first four months in the NICU. We lived in Jacksonville then, and I was commuting to Springfield for work. My husband, Andrew, was a school band director in Winchester, and I was (and still am) a social worker providing behavioral health care coordination for Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Those four months were very difficult, and we really relied on God. However, we were blessed with some amazing people during this time. Our church family at Jacksonville Faith Lutheran Church was very supportive, as was a friend of mine, Kelly Dunkirk, who attended Springfield First.

There were a lot of issues with Gwen during those months in the NICU, including breathing issues because her lungs weren’t fully developed. Because of the uncertain path ahead, we had Gwen baptized on May 5, 2012. She was so small—2 pounds, 7 ½ ounces. A pastor came and prayed with us; the nursing staff was amazing. They called our tiny daughter Princess Gwen.

In 2013, when Gwen was about a year old, my friend, Kelly, invited me to a small group, based out of Springfield First. This was how I initially got acquainted with Springfield First United Methodist Church. We felt very blessed between the small group and our Faith Lutheran family. I don’t know how people get through difficult circumstances without a support system like we had.

In 2014, I got pregnant with our son, Harrison. Due to an unfortunate mishap while reroofing our house, we lived in a hotel for 2 months while pregnant and with a 2-year-old.

In 2016, my husband decided to quit teaching and went to work for the State of Illinois. He still works the same job, except now as a supervisor, so it was the right move for him. We had heard good things about the Rochester school district, and since we would both be working in Springfield, we bought a house in Rochester. The house we found was very close to some friends from our Springfield First small group. Looking back now, it is amazing to see how God is always present in our lives.

After our move, things were pretty good. Harrison was having some speech issues, and we were able to get him help through Early Intervention in Rochester. His experience there, through having an IEP (Individualized Education Program), was amazing. Because of my work, I knew that some schools weren’t well equipped to deal with such situations. However, this is not the case in Rochester. This was just more evidence 8

TRUE LIFE CHANGE - MAGAZINE

of God’s provision for us. When Harrison started Kindergarten, he graduated from IEP. This all provided a great foundation for both of our children in the Rochester school system. Gwen was also struggling with some minor issues and the school was so good at being proactive with resources and interventions that were most helpful.

Then the pandemic happened and changed everyone’s lives in so many ways. I was hospitalized briefly during this time, and this led to some of my husband’s family members moving to Springfield to lend additional support. My father-in-law is a retired teacher, and my mother-in-law has also worked in education. Their presence and assistance were invaluable when the pandemic forced homeschooling.

Then, in August of 2021, Gwen started having headaches.

Additionally, there were a few instances where she fell, for no apparent reason, initially when she was trying to board the school bus one morning. We began conferring with the doctor to determine the cause of these episodes. It all came to a head one evening in September when we were on our way to a Rochester football game. Gwen started bumping into Andrew while we were walking and didn’t have any explanation. When I asked her to walk to me, we realized she was unable to walk in a straight line, looking like she was drunk. Instead of going to the game, we went to Urgent Care. X-rays revealed nothing significant, so we continued to monitor her and contacted our pediatrician.

Early in October, our pediatrician got us scheduled with a neurologist here in Springfield, but after the appointment was made and rescheduled for the end of November, we wondered if that would be soon enough. In mid-October, she fell twice in quick succession while at school. Our pediatrician advised that we take her to get an MRI. At St. John's, they did the MRI, and the doctor told us, “If it’s nothing, I will let you know. I won’t let you worry, but getting the results may take a while.” We knew something was wrong when the doctor failed to get back to us that night.

The next morning, they confirmed that she had a mass in her brain. At that point, we knew nothing about the tumor, except that it was inoperable because it was on her brain stem. I cried all that day and leaned heavily on my mom and my friend, Kelly. We learned they were sending us to St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

Once in St. Louis, they said that she needed surgery.

Thankfully, we caught it when we did because the tumor was blocking a drain for her cerebral spinal fluid, so it was building up and causing hydrocephalus, leading to the headaches and the balance issues. They scheduled her for surgery right

away to drain the fluid. During this first surgery, they put a hole in a new spot to allow the fluid to drain safely.

We were there for about a week, and Gwen was such a trooper. Gwen had already been through some very difficult medical situations. Gwen was concerned, though, that I was crying a lot, and she kept asking me if she was going to be okay. I prayed to God to help me know what to say to her. My response was, “We’re going to do everything in our power to help you be okay.” I didn’t know myself if she was going to be okay or what things would look like for her. Regardless, we knew there would be things to figure out, but at that point, we had no idea what the future held. I thank God every day for helping me know what to say because I didn’t want to lie to her.

Things just weren’t okay at that point.

The staff at St. Louis Children’s Hospital was amazing. After they placed the hole for the drain, Gwen came out of surgery, and the doctor told us that because of the proximity to the occipital lobe, her eyes would be pointed down for a while after surgery. So, when Gwen came out of surgery, in her sweet way of reacting to everything and being kind of out of it, she responded to something her dad said with a funny “guffaw” kind of laugh. This made everyone laugh, and Gwen still loves retelling this story. She is always such a light in this world.

They kept watch on the pressures, and the fluid drained as planned. They sent us home with a bandage on her head.

Her hair was shaved in that spot, leaving her thick, curly hair looking kind of crazy.

We got home, settled in, and discussed her return to school using her walker. The next day, however, cerebral fluid began leaking from her head. We contacted the doctor, and he indicated we needed to bring her right back to St. Louis.

This was hard on Harrison, who celebrated a birthday around this time. Harrison was staying with Andrew’s parents so he could maintain a semblance of his normal routine.

At the hospital, Gwen had surgery to try to create another drain hole. After about five days, it was evident this surgery was not successful, so she had to have another surgery to put in a hard shunt to drain the fluid properly. There is a spot on the right side behind her ear, and this drains to her stomach. At first, Gwen thought this was weird, but now she doesn’t feel it at all.

Through all this, our support system included the folks at Springfield First and our small groups. The outpouring of support was amazing, and I don’t know what we would have done without them. Clearly, God puts people and situations in our path so that we have help when we need it. Our faith has been strengthened through this journey. From the moment Gwen was born, we felt that God had something special

planned for her life. This difficult path was all meant to be part of Gwen’s story. We prayed before every surgery, and the nursing staff and surgeons prayed with us. This was an amazing experience.

Throughout the three weeks in the hospital, Gwen remained determined and positive. Every so often, she would again ask me if she was going to be okay. I would always repeat that we were doing everything in our power to make her okay.

Gwen still struggles with cognitive ability and with processing difficult concepts and tasks. The processing issues are more apparent now that Gwen is in 6th grade. She also struggles with anxiety and often feels overwhelmed when asked to complete multiple tasks. The neuropsychologist made suggestions, and the school has been wonderful in implementing these in her IEP. Gwen’s teachers and fellow students have always made Gwen feel valued and missed when she’s not at school. Gwen has a compassionate heart toward others and always wants to be the helper, not the one needing help. She has a kind of mothering instinct, which her brother does not particularly appreciate.

Sometimes, I must remind her that she’s not the mom; that’s my job. Gwen and Harrison have a great relationship though, and Harrison obviously adores her.

So many people have commented on what a positive force and light Gwen is to those around her. We are so proud of her, considering all she’s been through and is still going through.

We don’t know what the future holds for her with this tumor.

Still, we are so very grateful for the support we have through several church groups, including Springfield First, close Christian friends who pray with us and encourage us, medical personnel that work so hard to improve our daughter’s life, the Rochester School staff who work to enhance our children’s academic life, and our family with their unconditional support.

God’s light truly shines through our sweet Gwen, and we are amazed and blessed.

-Kendra,Gwen, Andrew, & Harrison

Core Values By definition, core values are fundamental beliefs that guide an individual or organization in their decisionmaking and behavior. These values represent the principles that are considered essential and non-negotiable.

They serve as a moral compass, influencing actions, attitudes, and priorities.

Developing the right set of core values is essential because they are the foundation to our mission: To see all generations experience true life change with Jesus.

BIBLICAL TRUTH Building Strong Foundations: Small Groups and Biblical Truth

MINDFUL PRAYER A Journey of Faith and Healing: Overcoming Medical Challenges Through Prayer

Our church's mission centers on supporting Biblical Truth, and small groups play a key role in making this mission a reality. These groups go beyond the surface, allowing us to dive deep into the Scriptures and truly understand their meaning. The personal connections formed in these groups make our church feel more alive and close-knit, like a family rather than just a crowd.

In December of 2021, a simple attempt to stand up from a chair revealed a daunting reality – my legs alone were too weak to get me out of the chair. I needed my arms to push myself up out of the chair. The weakness was evident in how I walked and how long I could walk. This wasn't an entirely unfamiliar experience, as a similar episode occurred back in 2007. At that time, a vertebrae pinching on my spinal cord required surgical intervention, and the issue was successfully resolved.

Being part of a small group gives us strength and guidance on the narrow path of Biblical Truth, helping us stay focused and grounded in our faith journey. The overwhelming support for these groups within our church is a testament to their importance.

Our small group is more than just a meeting—it's a community that actively nurtures our spiritual growth. It's a joy to explore the Scriptures together, sharing our journey and building intimate connections. Our small group has become an extended family, embodying the mission of our church to support Biblical Truth in a personal and transformative way.

-Dan Bergner

10 T R U E L I F E C H A N G E - M A G A Z I N E

Assuming a similar scenario this time, I believed surgery would once again be the solution. However, the journey to that solution turned out to be vastly different from what I had anticipated. I encountered unexpected roadblocks, starting with the surgeons in Springfield telling me – "There's nothing that can be done; you'll just have to live with it."

Feeling lost as to what to do, I felt God prompting me to not accept this discouraging prognosis and to go through whatever hoops were necessary to get to a surgeon in St. Louis. I knew I needed to seek God's guidance and the support of fellow believers, so I turned to my church community at Springfield First where I've been a member since 2012. Every week I filled out the prayer section of the

connection card, adding my situation to the prayer requests I was making on the behalf of others. Soon after, I also reached out to Bible study groups to which I belonged, consistently sharing my challenges and seeking prayers for each step.

The power of prayer became evident as numerous groups, like an army of prayer warriors, interceded on my behalf.

The impact was undeniable, reinforcing my belief that God was prompting me not to accept the discouraging prognosis. Thus began a lengthy journey, working closely with my family doctor to connect with a specialist at Washington University, Barnes Hospital in St. Louis. I was in awe of how each stumbling block just fell away as peoole continued to pray for me. For the two months prior to my surgery, I had to stop attending church in person due to the difficulty in walking any distance. Thankfully, I could stay connected through the streaming services every Sunday.

Through a battery of tests and consultations, the time from my initial struggle to regaining strength in my legs again was just short of two years. The surgery in September 2023 involved placing a rod in my spine spanning eight vertebrae.

The success of the procedure was immediately apparent – with the first step, my legs felt strong, and there was no hesitation or weakness. It was a miraculous transformation, and I knew that God had answered the prayers of many.

Reflecting on this experience, I can see that this all happened in God's timing and it demonstrates the importance of mindful prayer as a core value within the church. It's a unifying force that connects everyone in the congregation, bringing individuals closer to God as they lift each other up in prayer. My journey wouldn't have had the same outcome without the collective prayers of the church community.

Prayer isn't just a conversation with God; it's also a listening ear for His guidance, prompting us to reach out to others and follow His lead.

-Donna Metzger

JOYFUL GENEROSITY Living Out Joyful Generosity: A Journey of Giving and Getting Involved Since 1980, we've called First United Methodist Church our home. Reflecting on our journey, we vividly remember receiving our first pledge card as a couple shortly after becoming members. It marked a milestone for us, a sign that we were taking a step toward greater responsibility and commitment to our church community. As we pondered the contents of that pledge card, we began a journey of joyful generosity that has only grown over the years.

Generosity, to us, is not confined to financial contributions alone; it extends to the precious gift of time. Drawing inspiration from 2 Corinthians, which emphasizes the importance of being a cheerful giver, we find joy in contributing our time to various aspects of our church community. Whether it's working in the preschool or participating in mission trips, we've discovered that true generosity goes beyond monetary donations—it's a holistic commitment to the well-being of our community.

The driving force behind our giving is the profound impact we witness within our church. Stepping into the church and witnessing the vibrant activities fueled by the generosity of our fellow members is a testament to the enduring legacy of giving. We see the ripple effects of generosity from those who came before us, continuing through the present and extending into the future of our church.

While giving has always been a part of our lives, it hasn't always been an effortless journey. There was a time when we faced a struggle. Despite consistently giving the same amount for years, a sense of conviction led us to consider giving more. In a moment of divine alignment, we both found ourselves praying independently about the same matter. On the way to church one morning, we discovered that the amount laid on our hearts individually was exactly the same. It was a clear sign that prayerful consideration brings forth meaningful answers.

Beyond what we contribute, the church has given our children transformative opportunities through mission trips, shaping their life views and instilling a sense of purpose.

Those mission trips, both local and international, wouldn't be possible without the collective generosity of our church family.

Our church has become our extended family, a source of strength and support. The interconnected web of giving and receiving binds us together, fostering a community where everyone plays a part. Our commitment to First United Methodist Church is rooted in the understanding that, as a family, we can collectively make a positive impact, providing support and enriching the lives of those around us.

-Rich & Gina Solomon

As one of the Meals Ministry coordinators at Springfield First, I'm proud to be part of a team that works together to serve our community, beyond the walls of Springfield First. The ministry encompasses various initiatives, from assembling and donating bag meals, to cooking casseroles for foster families, to serving hot meals at the overflow homeless shelter in Springfield.

MISSIONAL LIFESTYLE Spreading Hope One Meal at a Time: A Missional Lifestyle of Generosity Living out a missional lifestyle, I've discovered the profound joy that comes from serving on the Meals ministry here at Springfield First. It's a simple act, but one that allows me to connect with people beyond my usual circles and make a meaningful impact on their lives. For me, this ministry is not just about providing meals: it's about reaching those who may not have encountered God otherwise.

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's easy to stay within our comfort zones. But I believe that reaching out to serve others is a crucial aspect of sharing the love of Christ.

Even a smile or a generous meal can be a beacon of hope for those who need it most. Recognizing that everyone deserves a meal but not everyone has access to one, I find purpose in brightening someone's day, even if in a small way. It's my way of utilizing the gifts God has blessed me with.

What sets our ministry apart is its global reach. We don't just feed our local community; we extend our efforts to send bag meals all over the world. It's heart-warming to see people of all ages actively participating in the Meals Ministry. The generosity of our congregation at Springfield First has made it possible for us to serve over 3500 meals in the local area in just the first nine months of 2023.

Beyond our borders, our meal packing efforts with Midwest Distribution Center have allowed us to send tens of thousands of meals abroad, impacting communities far and wide. The impact of this ministry goes beyond the act of providing sustenance; it's about fostering a sense of community, both locally and globally.

Our Meals Ministry is a testament to the power of collective generosity. It's a tangible expression of love and compassion, echoing the teachings of Christ. Through these simple yet profound acts of kindness, we're not just feeding bodies; we're feeding souls and spreading hope across the world—one meal at a time.

-Eden Lindberg

INSPIRATIONAL WORSHIP Harmony in Worship: Finding Purpose in Singing with the Choir When I sing with the choir, it's my way of praising God. It's not about putting on a show; it's about people coming together to express their love and worship for God through music. My love for singing is a gift from God, and being part of the choir gives my voice a purpose.

Music, to me, is a powerful way to connect with God. When we sing together, it's like feeling God's presence through the sound. It's a shared experience that confirms we're in a place of worship.

In the choir, we understand that the music isn't just heard, it's felt. This shared feeling reinforces the idea that God is

truly with us. Singing with the choir is a way to express our shared belief in God through music.

It's not about the words or the melody; it's about communicating our belief in God through the beauty of music. Singing with the choir goes beyond a performance – it's a way to strengthen our connection with the divine, creating a space where our worship becomes a simple and heartfelt offering to God. -Ellie Ramey

12

TRUE LIFE CHANGE - MAGAZINE

INSPIRATIONAL WORSHIP A Musical Journey of Worship: Playing Guitar in the Contemporary Team

Sunday Morning

StudentLife

New Life Choir

Pastor Roger Grimmett

Senior Gala

KidLife

Women's Ministry Paint Night

Feed Springfield Meals Ministry

I express my worship by playing the guitar for our contemporary worship team. It's not just about strumming chords; it's a meaningful way to connect with God through music.

The experience of inspirational worship is powerful—it's a distinct feeling that envelops me as we play. Each song carries a unique presence of God, making our musical journey more than just notes and lyrics.

When I first joined Springfield First, the worship team ignited my passion for playing the guitar, bringing me back to music after a decade-long break. The songs we play are like prayers, a way to offer praise to God through melody and verse.

Looking out into the congregation and seeing people worship along with us is the most fulfilling part of my time at Springfield First. The more they engage with the music, the more inspired I become, creating a reciprocal exchange of energy and devotion.

Inspirational worship isn't just a personal choice; it's a fundamental value of our church. Through the music, we draw closer to God, offering genuine praise that resonates with the entire congregation.

Being part of the contemporary worship team is a shared journey of inspiration and connection. Through our music, we aim to create an atmosphere where every note is a prayer, bringing worshippers closer to God. -Scott Fowler

Senior Gala

PURPOSEFUL HOSPITALITY Welcoming with Coffee: Community and Connection I'm part of the hospitality team, and my role involves serving coffee on Sunday mornings. We make sure to arrive early to prepare a variety of coffee options for our church community.

PURPOSEFUL HOSPITALITY Embracing Purposeful Hospitality: Opening Doors and Welcoming Hearts Hospitality is more than a role; it's a heartfelt commitment to create a warm and inviting atmosphere at our church. It starts with coming in early, unlocking the doors, and personally greeting everyone as they arrive. Ensuring that each person feels welcomed is a priority.

Seeing familiar smiling faces every week is something we eagerly anticipate, but it's equally rewarding to welcome new faces. The joy it brings me is something I hope translates into a welcoming experience for every individual who walks through our church doors.

This small task goes a long way in creating a welcoming environment. It's not just about making our regular attendees feel comfortable; it's also about extending a warm welcome to those joining us for the first time.

Serving coffee sets a positive tone for Sunday mornings, offering a friendly atmosphere amid the busyness.

Ultimately, serving coffee is a simple yet meaningful act that contributes to the sense of community and connection in our church. Whether you're a familiar face or a newcomer, a cup of coffee is our way of saying, "Welcome to our church family."

-Rob Pappas

Purposeful hospitality, in my view, is a vital aspect of our church community. It goes beyond routine greetings; it ties us together as a congregation. The intentional effort to make everyone feel acknowledged and valued fosters a sense of unity and belonging.

As we open our doors and hearts to both regular attendees and newcomers, purposeful hospitality becomes a powerful expression of our shared commitment to building a close-knit and welcoming church family.

-Mary Riegle & Mike Summers

PURPOSEFUL HOSPITALITY Lindsay Elementary Partnership Springfield First not only extends hospitality to its members but also warmly embraces the Lindsay community. The Spring Festival, held at the end of the school year, remains a highly praised event, creating lasting memories for families and staff.

The church actively participates in our mentoring program, offering volunteers to mentor Lindsay students and dedicating members' time to read with them. A pumpkin carving event in October saw enthusiastic participation from Springfield First, bringing joy to students whose parents couldn't attend.

14

TRUE LIFE CHANGE - MAGAZINE

A heartwarming gesture came from a couple of families who prepared a delightful breakfast for our staff professional development day. Looking forward, the Lindsay community is excited to host our holiday music program at Springfield First this December.

Expressing our gratitude doesn't capture the depth of appreciation we feel for this meaningful partnership with Springfield First.

-JaNai Miller - Family & Community Engagement Liaison Lindsay Elementary School

Walking in Faith: A Journey to Transformation through Prayer This past May, over 100 Springfield First members and friends, including me, were deeply impacted by Pastor Roger’s Prayer Encounter weekend. After the final session, we were challenged to choose two or three items from a list of responses as a followup to this incredible weekend. One of the commitments I made was to prayer walk two streets in my neighborhood.

I firmly believed God had a purpose for Don and me when we moved into a new neighborhood last fall, which was especially challenging for me. Leaving our home and the countless memories of family and friends who would never be in our new home caused heartache, grief, and discouragement within me.

The speaker at the Prayer Encounter helped me realize that God was as present in our new home as in our former home.

The Holy Spirit had called us as a couple to a ministry of lifestyle hospitality. Uprooted as I now felt, it was a comfort and relief to realize that God’s purpose for our home had not changed simply because we had changed locations.

I had met very few people in the neighborhood, but I wanted to know my neighbors. Prayer walking in my new neighborhood presented me with abundant opportunities and insights, and the chance to listen for the still small voice of God. As I walked in silence, I tried to pray for specific things but soon realized I didn’t know my neighbors or their needs, much less how to pray for them! What would be the correct words? What would have an impact on the people I did not yet know?

Suddenly, this commitment seemed overwhelmingly impossible.

Then the Scripture came to mind, “All things are possible with God.” What a relief! I wasn’t walking alone as I prayed. God was by my side and eager to hear my prayers because of his great love for my neighbors and me!

Most of the time, I walked in the evening. This is when people water their lawns and flowers in the spring and summer. Walking through your neighbor’s lawn sprinkler is a sure conversation starter! Conversations occurred easily. Standing on the sidewalk talking to my neighbor in her yard, our visits often lasted 5 to 20 minutes. Topics ranged from where you moved from, how long you have lived here, and how you like the neighborhood, to please tell me about your family. It was a natural transition.

Thanks be to God for allowing me to converse on a real, transparent level with new acquaintances. Over time, these neighbors have become friends and welcomed us into their lives.

It has been a privilege to tell people I will pray for them--and then do it! We often pray “on the spot” and find it helpful to give them a small olive wood cross and remind them that God is always with them in all situations.

Months of prayer walking in my neighborhood have taught me to: 1. Long for time alone with God. 2. Dig deeper into the Word of God. 3. Listen for God to speak in the stillness.

4. Strive for prayers that are rooted within the will of God. 5. Remember the faithfulness of God in my life.

6. Develop a confident trust in God’s plan for my life.

7. Live expectantly in the promise that God is constantly at work in me, in others, and in all our lives.

The neighborhood prayer walking experience transformed my attitude toward my neighbors and my life in a new situation and a different location. I’m thankful for opportunities given and taken from classes such as the Prayer Encounter weekend.

-Alyce Foster

To see all generations experience True Life Change with Jesus.

Facebook · SpringfieldFUMC Instagram · springfieldfumc Twitter · SpringfieldFUMC 217.793.9760 www.springfieldfirst.org 2941 South Koke Mill Road Springfield, Illinois 62711

WEEKEND WORSHIP EXPERIENCES Sunday

9:00am Contemporary in Community Life Center 10:30am Contemporary in Community Life Center 10:30am Traditional in the Sanctuary

Stay up on ALL future events of Springfield First · Visit www.springfieldfirst.org