december 2024 upcoming@st.mark’s
the monthly newsletter of St. Mark’s United Methodist Church
THESEASONOFADVENTISUPONUS
The season of Advent is upon us. The part of our brain that measures time asks the question,“Howdidthishappensoquickly?Wherehasthetimegone?”Butfromthatvoice within us that has been waiting for the fulfilling of the reign of God comes a different response: “What took you so long? We’ve been waiting for you.” Advent speaks to both longings to the restless part of us that races through life and to the discouragement withinusthatlongstoseeGod’smercyandjusticemorefullypresent.
For that to be true, Advent must pack quite a spiritual punch. Years ago, the German Lutheran theologian and pastor, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, preached an Advent sermon on the Magnificat, the song of Mary in Luke 1: 46-55. Bonhoeffer writes, this song is “the most passionate, the wildest, and one might almost say the most revolutionary Advent hymn that has ever been sung.” This is, he continues, a “hard, strong, relentless hymn about the toppling of the thrones and the humiliation of the lords of this world, about the power of Godandthepowerlessnessofhumankind.”
In this issue of Upcoming, you will find multiple opportunities to enter in the restorative and inspiring spirit of Advent. Our longing for delight will find expression in events as diverse as the UWF Cookie Shoppe and the Joyful Sound Bell Concert; from Gospel Christmas to the Chamber Singers’ Messiah Sing; from the Hanging of the Greens to the Children’s Christmas Pageant. Those of us who are weary, grieving and discouraged can find some peace in the Blue Christmas service, a Sunday evening Taizé Vespers service, and the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. The call to prepare the way for the coming reign of God may be inspired by the Chancel Choir’s December 8th worship presentation ofMagnificat,composedbyTaylorScottDavis.
christmas at st. mark’s
CHRISTMASEVESERVICES
CHRISTMASEVEMORNINGSERVICE
TUESDAY,DECEMBER24,2024@10:30am
Join us Tuesday morning for a worship service on Christmas Eve. We will sing carols, have a sermon, and share in a Children’s Moment. We will celebrate Holy Communion, and close with the singing of Silent Night with candlelight. Join us in person or on Live Stream.
CHRISTMASPAGEANT
TUESDAY,DECEMBER24,2024@4pm
Pleasenotetimechangefrompreviousyears!
Come Celebrate the Christmas Story!
Join us for a heartwarming Christmas Eve tradition on Tuesday, December 24, at 4 pm in the Sanctuary Experience the magic of the season as our children and youth bring the story of Christ’s birth to life through a memorable pageant Enjoy the sounds of beloved Christmas carols, the glow of candlelight, and the peace of singing Silent Night together as a church family This special service is the perfect way to celebrate the joy and wonder of Christmas We can’t wait to share it with you!
For information on participating in the Christmas Pageant, see the Children’s Ministries section
ASERVICEOFLESSONSANDCAROLS
TUESDAY,DECEMBER24,2024@11pm
This late-night traditional service, on Christmas Eve, is a wonderful way to bring in the joyful celebration of the Nativity. The service will include carols, solos, readings of the Christmas story, a sermon, changing of the paraments, and candle lighting during the singing of Silent Night. We would love for you to join us in-person or on livestream.
christmas at st. mark’s
CHRISTMASEVEOFFERINGS
The offering from the 10:30, 4pm pageant, and the 11:00pm Christmas Eve service will be divided evenly between the Bishop’s Christmas Offering for Children and St. Mark’s Nursery School and Kindergarten Scholarships. The Bishop’s offering helps fund opportunities for children & youth, including summer programs, and provides funds to address urgent needs of children locally and globally. For over 50 years, St. Mark’s Nursery School & Kindergarten has been recognized for its high-quality early childhood education. Donations to the Scholarship fund help us ensure that St Mark's Nursery School and Kindergarten is accessible to all children and families
Thank you for your generosity to these important ministry areas at this special time of year On Christmas Eve, if you plan to bring contributions for the general ministries of St Mark's, or toward your annual giving (or pledge), please make sure that you note that on your check or envelope
CHRISTMASPOINSETTIAS
As is our Advent and Christmas tradition, we will decorate the altar area of the sanctuary with beautiful poinsettias. If you would like to sponsor a poinsettia in honor, in memory, or in celebration of loved ones, please fill out the form online, or call the church office. A donation of $10 per poinsettia is suggested. This can be paid by cash, by check (write ‘poinsettia’ on the memo line) or online via the Donate link on the church website. We will produce a document commemorating those donations and those they honor or memorialize. All who donate will be invited to take their poinsettias home after the Christmas Eve services. Please contact the church office with any questions.
THEST.MARK’SCAROLCLASHISBACK!
Get ready for a festive showdown at St Mark’s with the Carol Clash! This exciting event lets you decide which Christmas carols be sung Sunday, December 22nd Cast your votes each week for your favorite holiday tunes will the reigning champions (The FirstNoel and OComeallYeFaithful) be unseated? Let your voice be heard and make this season merry and bright!
an update from the stewardship team
CELEBRATEST.MARK’S@SEVENTYSTEWARDSHIPCAMPAIGN
This year, we are celebrating St. Mark’s seventy years as a church. We have invited you to consider the many ways to celebrate the gift that is St. Mark’s, and to dream of what our future together can help us achieve.
Hopefully, you have received a packet from the Stewardship Team If not, you may pick one up at church, or let us know, and we’ll send it your way Please prayerfully consider financially supporting the ministry and mission of St Mark’s in two ways First, we invite you to pledge toward the annual budget which supports staff, our growing ministries, building maintenance and more Secondly, we ask you to pledge toward our capital expenses, which will help us keep our facility well maintained and ready for ministry opportunities, and enable us to open our doors to support local non-profits Please return the card in the envelope enclosed in the packet, or fill out the form online through Realm, our online data base Contact the church office or any member of the Stewardship Team with questions
As of November 20, we have received 72 pledges totaling $375,758 to Operating and Ministry Cost. Our goal for this year is $600,000. In term of the Capital Giving pledges, to date we have received 49 pledges totaling $46,417. Our goal for this year is $85,000. We are deeply grateful for these early pledge numbers, and the faith and commitment they represent. We realize that some of you are unable to estimate your giving until later this year. We will continue to receive pledges through the end of 2024 and into early 2025, when we will need to finalize the budget.
ENDOFTHEYEARGIVING
Year-end contributions can be brought to the church office by Tuesday, December 31, 2024. Staff members will be in the building to accept your year-end gifts. Ring the doorbell at the south, east or sanctuary entrances. Contributions can also be dropped in the secure mailbox off the South parking lot, or postmarked by Tuesday, December 31, 2024, to be recorded as charitable contributions for the 2024 tax year.
tax advantages of charitable giving
Hurlow Wealth Management Group, who manages the church's endowment fund, has provided the following information regarding tax advantages of gifting to charitable organizations. The article also includes methods for donating appreciated stock and your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).
CharitableGiftsAreTaxDeductible
Gifts to a qualified charitable organization may entitle you to a charitable contribution deduction against your income tax if you itemize deductions. You must itemize in order to take a charitable deduction Make sure that if you itemize, your total deductions exceed the standard deduction If they're not, stick with the standard deduction
ConsiderGiftingAppreciatedStockInsteadofCash
Cash and stock gifts allow you to take a charitable income tax deduction However, when you gift long-term appreciated stock to a charitable organization, you receive an additional tax benefit because you avoid paying tax on your stock's "built-in" capital gains If you were to sell appreciated stock, you would have to pay capital gains tax, typically ranging from 15% - 23 8% (as of this writing), depending on your income However, if you gift the stock directly to the church, you could avoid the capital gains tax altogether and earn the tax deduction for the donation Even better, St Mark's UMC can sell the stock without paying capital gains tax!
ConsiderGiftingYourRequiredMinimumDistribution
If you are over Age 72 (previously 70-½) and are required to take money out of your IRA each year, you are eligible to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). Instead of taking your yearly Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from your IRA – and paying the required tax on it – you could gift it directly from your IRA to the church or other qualified charity. The benefit is that the donation counts as your required minimum distribution but doesn't increase your adjusted gross income, which can be a great benefit if you don't itemize and can't deduct charitable contributions. In addition, keeping some or all of your RMD out of your adjusted gross income could help you avoid the Medicare high-income surcharge or reduce the taxable portion of your Social Security benefits.
The money must be transferred directly from the IRA to the charity to qualify as a tax-free transaction However, if you withdraw the money from the IRA and give it to the charity, you can deduct the gift as a charitable contribution (if you itemize), but the withdrawal will be included in your adjusted gross income To make such a transfer, contact the financial institution that handles your IRA and tell them that you want all or part of your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) to be sent directly to the church or qualified non-profit of your choice If you have any questions or need help with either of these methods of gifting, please feel free to call 812-333-4726 and ask for Theresa Claire, Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy®, or email tclaire@hurlowwealth com John C Hurlow can also be reached by email at jhurlow@hurlowwealth com Find more information about charitable gifting on the Hurlow Wealth Management Group's resources page at www hurlowwealth com/resources
community care
There are multiple MUSH Christmas trees at St Mark’s: in the sanctuary, Garton Hall and in the Nursery School & Kindergarten Hallway You are encouraged to bring in new mittens, underwear, socks, and hats, for children and adults in need of these items You are welcome to hang hats and mittens (or gloves) on the trees, and place underwear and socks under the trees The donations will be taken to our non-profit partners who will get these to those most in need Thank you for your continuing generosity during this season
BACKPACKBUDDIES
On the first Sunday of each month, we collect food items for Community Kitchen’s “Backpack Buddies” program. Backpack Buddies provides backpacks of weekend food to selected lowincome children at twenty-one local schools During the school year, children receive a backpack of food each week to help them and their families with their weekend food needs They are currently providing this service at nearly every school in the county They have nearly 500 children enrolled in this program Thisneedwillbeespeciallygreatthroughouttheholidayseasonwhile studentsareoffofschoolforanextendedbreak
You can bring your donated food items to church on the first Sunday of the Month, or there is a box in Garton Hall that you can donate to throughout the month. If you will not be here on Sunday, can also bring items to St. Mark’s anytime during the week. The church office is open from 9am-3pm (M-F).
community care
LOAVESANDFISHESFUND
HELPUSMEETEMERGENCYFINANCIALNEEDS
Occasionally, we at St. Mark’s are asked to assist with emergency financial needs. The resources which allow us to respond to such requests primarily come through our Loaves and Fishes Fund. This fund is administered by the staff at the referral from one of our non-profit partners that is seeking to help meet a need. Usually, these are cases that have fallen through the cracks or go beyond the ability of the social help network to meet The source of these funds is the generosity of the good people of St Mark’s, giving above and beyond their giving to the budget and capital needs of the church We give to this fund during the monthly communion service, but offerings can be designated to the Loaves and Fishes Fund at any time
Recently, and not surprisingly, we have received many requests If you are so led and are able, will you prayerfully consider giving to the Loaves and Fishes Fund If you give by check, please write “Loaves and Fishes” in the memo line of your check, or place the check or cash in an envelope, and write “Loaves and Fishes” on that envelope. As always, we are deeply grateful for the kind and faithful generosity you show so deeply.
OPERATIONFRIENDSHIPGREENERY
Wreaths ordered from Operation Friendship should be ready for pickup on Sunday, November 24th in room 11 A representative from Operation Friendship will be at St Marks on Sunday to distribute wreaths and accept payments from 9-10:30 am and from 11:30 - 12:00 noon You may also stop by the church weekdays from 9:00-3:00pm If you need to arrange an alternate pick-up time, please contact the church office at 812-332-5788 You can still order wreaths for delivery through mid December at www giftitforward com Use the code OPERATIN001 Finally, we have some extra items for pickup
Let Stephanie know if you would like to purchase any of these items: Cranberry Splash Wreath ($37), Classic Wreath ($34), Victorian Spray ($33), Wintergreen Spray ($33), Sugarberry centerpiece ($28), Tabletop Tree ($28), 15' garland ($38) and 25' garland ($42)
december events
HANGINGOFTHEGREENS DECEMBER1STAFTERWORSHIP
Let’s decorate the church for Christmas! This year, Hanging of the Greens will have a different look. Immediately after worship on Sunday, December 1, all are invited to help decorate the sanctuary. When that is completed, we’ll move to Garton Hall for a simple and tasty (turkey free) meal. Following lunch, we’ll sing a few favorite songs at table, then decorate the rest of the church. Children and youth will be invited to choose a costume for the Christmas Eve Pageant. We do ask that young ones have a parent or other adult with them.
Bring friends or visiting relatives. All are welcome!
JOYFULSOUNDHOLIDAYCONCERT
DECEMBER1ST@1:30PM
Ring in the Advent season with the Joyful Sound Holiday Concert on Sunday, December 1st, at 1:30 PM in the beautiful St. Mark's Sanctuary. This festive and FREE (donations greatly appreciated) performance by Indianapolis' premier handbell choir will fill your heart with the joy of the holidays.
Joyful Sound, formed in 1999, is an advanced community handbell choir dedicated to promoting the art of English handbell ringing. Their six octaves of handbells and chimes create a rich tapestry of sound, blending sacred and secular music to inspire and uplift audiences. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to handbell music, this concert is a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season. Bring your family and friends to enjoy an afternoon of beautiful music and festive cheer.
december events
SHOEBOXPROJECT
MONDAYDECEMBER2ND@9:30AM (UNITEDWOMENINFAITH)
Fill shoeboxes for Middleway House residents with personal hygiene supplies and a few other small items. Items currently needed include combs, pocket size tissues, washcloths and combs. These items can be left in the basket in Garton Hall.
TRUSTEESMEETING
MONDAYDECEMBER2ND@7PM
Trustees meet in open session the first Monday of every month at 7PM in Rm. 8, with a Zoom option available. Major items for December 2 are consideration of the 2025 Operating Budget Request (which will include a review of 2024 activities), a first pass at possible 2025 Capital Projects and a look at Temple Tidying plans. Maybe a visit from Santa Claus.
COOKIESHOPPETURTLEMAKING DECEMBER4TH@6:30PM (UNITEDWOMENINFAITH)
Share your time and Talent with the UWF Holiday Cookie Shoppe and join in a time of fellowship and baking as the UWF bakers make delicious Turtle Clusters.
COOKIESHOPPESUGARCOOKIEDECORATING DECEMBER5TH@9AM (UNITEDWOMENINFAITH)
UWF Invites you to share your time and talent to create beautiful hand decorated Sugar Cookies to be sold at the Cookie Shoppe on December 7th! Join in the fun starting at 9am on December 5th in the Kitchen!
december events
HOLIDAYCOOKIESHOPPEANDCRAFTBAZAAR (UNITEDWOMENINFAITH)
DECEMBER7th@
8:30am-12pm(cookies)
8:30am-3pm(Crafts)
The United Women in Faith have outdone themselves this year! Not only are they bringing you scrumptious holiday cookies and treats but they have crafted beautiful handmade gifts and curated a stunning selection of vendors for their craft bazaar WHICH IS HAPPENING THE SAME DAY THIS YEAR.
COOKIES AND CRAFTS! And a puzzle swap! And Plants! All the same time! And...EVEN LUNCH!
Get ahead of your Holiday Shopping and Baking, and treat yourself to lunch to make it a whole day of exciting festivities.
If you know a crafter who may want to vend with us, we still have a few spots left! You can email uwfevents@gmail.com for an application. We are also still gratefully accepting donations of puzzles, plants, crafts, and volunteer time! Check out the Realm event for the sign up genius link!
GOSPELCHRISTMASCONCERT SATURDAYDECEMBER7TH@6PM
You are invited to a spectacular Gospel Christmas Concert right here in the St Mark’s Sanctuary on December 7th at 6pm Join Jeanelle Ogunsemore and friends for a fabulous FREE program Donations are greatly appreciated and will benefit the St Mark’s Nursery School and Kindergarten Scholarship Fund Enjoy some amazing artistry and support this beloved St Mark’s Mission!
december events
CHANCELCHOIRSINGSMAGNIFICAT
BYTAYLORSCOTTDAVIS
SUNDAYDECEMBER8TH@10:30AMINWORSHIP
Join us in worship on Sunday morning, December 8th as we explore in music, song, and word the beautiful Song of Mary known as the Magnificat This Canticle, taken from the Gospel of Luke, speaks of Mary’s exultation when, upon visiting her cousin Elizabeth, she sings of her faith in God and her joy in being called blessed and fulfilling the promise of Abraham Our Chancel Choir will be joined by a chamber ensemble of strings and winds and harp to present Taylor Scott Davis’ Magnificat, a beautiful setting of the text There will be images and spoken reflections to offer insights into this important advent hymn of praise that has carried a powerful message across the ages We hope you will be with us this Sunday morning to experience this special musical and spiritual offering during our Advent season
SOULFEAST
DECEMBER8TH@12PM
It is not too late to join us as we move through our experience of reflection and engagement with many spiritual practices.
In her book, SoulFeast, Marjorie Thompson writes, “The old mystics were fond of saying that we are capax Dei, that is, capable of receiving and embodying divine life.” In this monthly gathering, we’ll explore some of the basic Christian practices such as holy reading, Lectio Divina, confession, meditation, fasting, sabbath keeping, various forms of prayer, and many more.
In our time together, we seek to understand these practices. Our emphasis, however, will be experiencing the practices. We’ll invite each other to undertake the one of the spiritual practices during the weeks between sessions.
We meet monthly, and you can bring a light lunch for yourself, if you so choose. Our next meeting is December 8. For more information, contact Jimmy Moore, or register on Realm.
december events
BLOOMINGTONCHAMBERSINGERS MESSIAHPARTONESING-ALONG DECEMBER8TH@3PM
Bloomington Chamber Singers is excited to continue their tradition of the community Messiah Sing-Along. This muchanticipated event is free and open to the public. Bring your copy of Handel’s Messiah(a limited number of loaner copies will be available) and sing side-by-side with The Bloomington Chamber Singers. The performance will be accompanied by a chamber orchestra.
Just want to listen? Come along and enjoy Part One of TheMessiah with the addition of “The Hallelujah Chorus” as a wonderful way to usher in the holiday season. Bloomington Chamber Singers is teaming up with Hoosier Hills Food Bank as a donation site for this concert. The chorus will be accepting donations of nonperishable food items to help support the mission of the food bank
FAMILYMOVIENIGHT
SUNDAYDECEMBER8TH@5PM
December Movie Night Article: Kick off the holiday season with a festive Family Movie Night on Sunday, December 8, from 5-7 pm in Room 8, featuring the 2018 animated favorite, TheGrinch! Come early at 4:30 pm to build your own cozy blanket fort for the ultimate movie-watching experience. Popcorn will be provided, and you’re welcome to bring additional nut-free snacks to enjoy during the film.
Don’t forget to wear your best Christmas pajamas or sweaters to get into the holiday spirit. We can’t wait to see you there!
december events
HOOSIERHILLSFOODBANK VOLUNTEERDAY MONDAYDECEMBER9TH@3PM
Join your St Mark's friends in a time of service at the Hoosier Hills Food Bank
Children 10 and older are welcome as volunteers if accompanied by an adult, although some restrictions are in place for their safety Please note that when participating in any volunteer activity, wear close-toed shoes!
BLUECHRISTMAS
The holiday season, a joyful time for so many, can also be very challenging Grief, discouragement, illness and eruptions in our personal and global lives are very real these days, and we long for peace within us and around us You are invited to join us in person in the St Mark’s library for a Blue Christmas service of Comfort and Healing This is a time to sing carols, share reflections, and participate in an experience of anointing and candle lighting
We look forward to sharing in this time together
9THANNUALWOMEN’SCHRISTMASBRUNCH SATURDAYDECEMBER14TH@9:30AM
AninvitationtoallSt.Mark'swomen: Be our guest and join us for the 9th Annual Women’s Christmas Brunch Saturday, December 14th at 9:30 a m
Enjoy breakfast, fellowship, the Christmas story, and Christmas carols in Garton Hall RSVP to Nina Taylor, Linda Crawford, or via the Realm Event
december events
GETTINGREADYFORCHRISTMAS
SATURDAYDECEMBER14TH@1-3PM
Join us on December 14 from 1-3 pm in Garton Hall for a fun-filled afternoon of Christmas crafts! Kids PreK-6th grade are invited to come and make beautiful ornaments, decorations, and other festive creations in preparation for the holiday season. This exciting event will be full of hands-on activities that will spark creativity and holiday cheer. It’s the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit and spend time with friends while creating memories that will last all season long!
We’re also looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help make this event a success. If you’re interested in volunteering, please see the “Serving Opportunities” section or contact Madison Sinan at madisonsinan@smumc.church. We can’t wait to celebrate with you all!
CHILDREN’SCHIMESWITHMAESTRALOIS
PLAYINGDECEMBER15THINWORSHIP
Join Maestra Lois, Madison, Stephanie, and friends to play and sing a Carol in Worship on December 15th.
Children and Youth will rehearse during Sunday School on December 8th, and have a brush up rehearsal before service at 10:00am on December 15th. The Young at Heart also welcome!
COMPASSIONATETHREADS MONDAYDECEMBER16TH@11AM
Compassionate Threads is a group of St. Mark’s quilters. Bring any and all things quilty. Feel free to bring your lunch. We have outlets and tables for machines and comfy chairs for hand sewing.
december events
ARTJOURNALING
WEDNESDAYDECEMBER18TH@1PM
Most of us have had short-lived attempts at writing a diary or painting a canvas of a special place in our lives But with the help and the encouragement of other beginners, you might just see how combining a few of your words with some simple sketches in a journal book can become a continuing practice which will feed your soul And most journalists find there is fun and good fellowship to be had by sharing journaling ideas with a small group
This meeting will be held not at St Mark’s, but at Bill Reed’s home If you need the location information the office can help
ADVENTTAIZÉVESPERSERVICE
WEDNESDAYDECEMBER18TH@7PM
With much struggle going on in the world, Advent presents an opportunity for centering deeply in the resources of our faith. You are invited to a special time of contemplative worship as we gather for an Advent Taizé Vesper service. Join us in the sanctuary at 7:00 PM on Wednesday, December 18th for this time of calm and peace.
The service will include prayer, readings from Scripture and other meaningful texts, and music rooted in the monastic and ecumenical Taizé community tradition of southern France. Come and breathe deeply and experience the healing grace of community.
RECONCILINGMINISTRIESCONVERSATIONHOUR
SUNDAYDECEMBER22TH@9:30AM
Prefer to talk to someone in a smaller setting about what Reconciling Ministries is or how to be a part of the group? Representatives from the Reconciling Ministries Committee will be in the St Mark’s Library before church If this is still too many people or you would rather meet one-on-one contact Annette Lemond, Jil Washburn, Mary Beth Morgan or the church office for more information or to set up a meeting
weekly meetings
ST.MARK’SNEEDLEWORKERS
WEDNESDAYS1-3PM
Bring your quilting or crafts to Room 10 and spend time with others who enjoy these activities. All skill levels are welcome and encouraged to attend Contact Patti Wright or the church office with questions
WOMENOFWONDERANDFAITH
THURSDAYS11AM
Women of Wonder and Faith is a group of journeying disciples sharing conversation with each other around a book study and topics of life Our readings range from current events and social justice, to faith based theology
In addition to reading and discussing, we participate in regular philanthropy for various groups in Bloomington and the surrounding areas If you have any questions, please contact Maria Schmidt or the Church office
CHANCELRINGERSREHEARSAL
THURSDAYS6PM
The handbell choir plays in worship one or two Sundays each month New or experienced ringers are invited to join at any rehearsal If you can count to four, you can probably enjoy playing handbells Experience fellowship with other ringers and the many benefits of playing music
For more information, contact Lois Leong, Handbell Director, or the church office!
weekly meetings
CHANCELCHOIRREHEARSAL
THURSDAYS7PM
The chancel choir rehearses each Thursday evening from 7-8pm and sings in worship each Sunday as well as for occasional special services during the year. Singers are always welcome to join the choir. No auditions, no pressure, just the joy of making music! For more information, contact Gerry Sousa, Director of Music Ministries.
CONVERSATIONSONLIFE
FRIDAYS1PM
This men’s discussion group invites all men to come together for reading and theological reflection. Visitors are always welcomed.
NOMADS
SUNDAYS9:30
The selected readings for this generally progressive group can prompt discussions on issues of faith, spirituality, and/or social justice. Recent authors whose books have been used have included Barbara Brown Taylor, Joan Chittester, and Richard Rohr. All are invited to join us on Sunday mornings. Please contact the church office for more information.
children’s ministries
DECEMBERSUNDAYSCHOOL:ADVENTTHROUGHTHESENSES
This December, join us for a special 4-part Sunday School series, “Advent Through the Senses.” Each week, we’ll explore the wonder of the Advent season using one of our five senses Lessons include: Seeing Hope (Sight), Hearing Good News (Sound), Sharing Joy (Touch), and The Love of Christmas (Smell & Taste). These engaging and interactive classes will help children connect with the beauty and spirit of Advent in creative and memorable ways. On Sunday, December 29, children will remain in the Sanctuary to worship with their families.
We can’t wait to see you there!
This December, we invite you to be part of the magic and meaning of the season by volunteering with our children’s ministries! From sharing the joy of crafting at our Getting Ready for Christmas event to helping bring the Christmas story to life in our pageant, or supporting Sunday School activities, there’s a place for everyone to make a difference Your time and care help create a nurturing environment where children can experience the wonder of the season and grow in faith
Ready to lend a hand? Scan the QR code or visit the link below to sign up today! Together, we can make this December truly special for our kids and their families
Thank you for being part of this ministry it wouldn’t be the same without you!
december, 2024
children’s ministries
CHRISTMAS PAGEANT PARTICIPATION
All children and youth are invited to participate in this year’s Christmas Eve pageant! Whether you’re a regular, a visiting family member, or a friend, we’d love to include you in this special retelling of the Christmas story. There are plenty of ways to get involved: take on a speaking or non-speaking role, share your musical or artistic talents, help light candles, or assist by passing out bulletins.
We’ll have a rehearsal on Monday, December 23, from 5-6 pm. If you can’t make it, don’t worry just let us know so we can find the perfect way for you to participate. To sign up, fill out the participation form, stop by the Children’s Ministry check-in table, or email Madison Sinan, Director of Children’s Ministries, at madisonsinan@smumc.church. We can’t wait to see how you’ll make this year’s pageant truly special!
st. mark’s nursery school and kindergarten
MondaythroughFriday 9:30-12(9-12:30Kindergarten)
Established in 1969, we believe that children learn best through play and meaningful relationships with peers and loving adults. Our 7 classrooms serve families of infants through kindergarteners. Our teaching teams follow the child’s lead and continually adapt our indoor and outdoor environments, allowing children to experience and develop a deep love of learning. Children enjoy weekly company of parent participants and musicians, and love the new addition of “Book Sharing” volunteers. For more information about volunteering with us, enrolling, or donating to our scholarship or general fund, please visit our website at smnurseryschool.org or email our director at director@smnurseryschool.org.
december, 2024
january 2025 at st. mark’s
LookingAheadtoJanuary2025
MONDAY,JANUARY20,9:00AM–11:00AM DR.MARTINLUTHERKING,JR.DAYOFSERVICE
Remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through acts of service with others. St. Mark’s invites all ages to participate in our day of service opportunities, in collaboration with other faith communities and non-profits. The day begins with a light breakfast at St. Mark’s followed volunteer opportunities on-site and in the community. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or caregiver. More information, and volunteer options, will be available in early January.
If you can help to plan and organize this great day, please contact Mary Beth Morgan.
PUBTHEOLOGYWILLRESUMEINJANUARY
Pub Theology is a monthly gathering set apart for serious conversation and fellowship. Typically, we meet on Mondays, at Hank’s Pizza Mac, 1285 S. College Mall Road. Plan to join us for this gathering for fellowship and theological chatting while enjoying some food and beverages. Brief assigned readings are selected ahead of time, and form the basis for our conversation.
We will not meet in the month of December, but will look forward to resuming our connection in January.
sundays at st. mark’s
Join us for Sunday worship at St. Mark's United Methodist Church at 10:30 AM! We are an open and affirming congregation, welcoming everyone with love and acceptance. Our services are a time for spiritual growth, community connection, and heartfelt worship We especially welcome you to stop in for a cup of coffee and fellowship before worship, or drop in and meet our thoughtful Nomads Adult Sunday School Class Children and Youth are welcome and celebrated in worship and our Sunday School Classes; we also offer infant and toddler care!
Whether you’re a lifelong member or exploring faith for the first time, you’ll find a warm and supportive environment here Experience inspiring music, uplifting messages, compassionate prayer, and the joy of gathering with others in faith
Together, we celebrate diversity and seek to reflect God’s love in all we do Come as you are your presence enriches our community We’d love to have you with us this Sunday! For more information, feel free to reach out or visit our website, www.smumc.church. We look forward to welcoming you to St. Mark's!
(Contact Church office if 9:30am care is needed) 10:30-11:30am
Check in outside of Sanctuary before service
Please note: There will be no Children’s Sunday School December 29th.
St.Mark’sUnitedMethodistChurch
Pastors
LayLeaders
DirectorofChildren’sministries
DirectorofMusicMinistries
Organistandbelldirector
Organist
Financedirector
AdministrativeAssistant
SocialMedia
Custodians
ReverendJimmyMoore
ReverendMaryBethMorgan
DianLudlow
jonathanmichaelsen
Madisonsinan
GerrySousa
LoisLeong
Ilzeakerbergs
Decembersmedley
PatrickConklin
StephanieConklin
Jeffwyatt
MattAllen
St.Mark’s NurserySchoolandkindergarten
Director AssistantDirector OfficeManager
KateMorris
JulieHammond susiewalker
INOBSERVANCEOFTHECHRISTMASANDNEWYEAR’SHOLIDAYS, THEST.MARK’SBUILDINGWILLBECLOSEDASFOLLOWS: WednesdayDecember25th-FridayDecember27th WednesdayJanuary1standThursdayJanuary2nd
There will be no staff members in the building and there will be no events planned at the church
In the event of a pastoral emergency, please call the church office. More information is provided in the answering machine message.
upcoming@st.mark’sispublishedeachmonthasaninformationalresourceandguidetotheactivities andeventswithinandaroundtheSt.Mark’schurchcommunity.Copiesaredistributedatthebeginning ofeachmonthalongwiththeSundayworshipbulletin.AdditionalcopiesareavailableattheWelcome CenterDesk,atthemainentrancestothebuilding,orbycontactingtheChurchOffice.
Anonlinecopyofupcoming@st.mark’scanbedownloadedfromourchurchwebsite (www.smumc.church).Wewelcomearticlesforpublication.DeadlineforsubmissionsfortheJanuary 2025issueisDecember16th.FormoreinformationpleasecontactStephanieConklinat StephanieConklin@smumc.church.
advent & christmas @ st. mark’s
SUNDAY,DECEMBER 1(THEFIRSTSUNDAYOFADVENT)
11:30am Hanging of the Greens
1:30pm Joyful Sound! Handbell Choir Concert
SATURDAY,DECEMBER 7
8:30am-12pm UWF Cookie Shoppe
8:30am-3pm UWF Holiday Craft Bazaar
6pm Gospel Christmas Concert
SUNDAY,DECEMBER8(THESECONDSUNDAYOFADVENT)
10:30am Sanctuary Worship with Special Music
11:45am Soul Feast
3pm Bloomington Chamber Singers Messiah Sing-Along
5pm Family Movie Night
WEDNESDAYDECEMBER11
7pm Blue Christmas: A Service of Comfort and Healing
SATURDAYDECEMBER14
9:30am 9th Annual Women’s Christmas Brunch 1pm-3pm Getting Ready for Christmas
SUNDAY,DECEMBER15(THETHIRDSUNDAYOFADVENT)
10:30am Sanctuary Worship
WEDNESDAYDECEMBER18
7pm Advent Taizé Vesper Service
SUNDAY,DECEMBER22(THEFOURTHSUNDAYOFADVENT)
10:30am Sanctuary Worship
TUESDAYDECEMBER24(CHRISTMASEVE)
10:30am Christmas Eve Morning
4pm Christmas Pageant and Candle Lighting 11pm Lessons and Carols
SUNDAYDECEMBER29
10:30am Sanctuary Worship