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Recording Artists ‘All Sons & Daughters’ Bring Worship & Conversation to St. Luke’s April 7, p. 6
A Guide to the Season Ahead: April/May 2015
Sometimes Mentoring is Just Reminding Undergrads
We Haven’t Forgotten Them
Bishop Wilke: Disciple Bible Study Puts Students on Fast Track to Biblical Literacy, p. 10
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Mentoring Youth Young Adults Worship Adult Discipleship Bishop Wilke Preschool/Children
Apr/May 2015 Connections@ St.Luke’s: a publication of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church 100 W. 86th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 317-846-3404 www.stlukesumc.com A PDF version of Connections is available at www.stlukesumc.com. The submission deadline for the June/July Connections@ St.Luke’s is April 27
Spiritual Life Center Care
Holy Week April 2 • Maundy Thursday • 7PM Jesus’ Last Supper with his Disciples The Upper Room
April 3 • Good Friday • Noon & 7PM Jesus’ Crucifixion and Death Golgotha
Easter April 5 • 8, 9:30, 11:15AM - Traditional Services 11:15AM - Contemporary Service 6PM - Later @ St. Luke’s Multicultural Service New Life in Christ The Empty Tomb
Outreach Fellowship/UMW
Hours
St. Luke’s office is open 8:30AM-5PM Monday-Friday. Our Prayer Chapel is available for silent prayer and meditation when the church is open. In case of a pastoral emergency, call 317-846-3404. After hours, leave a message including how you can be reached by the on-call pastor.
Frequent Needs...........................Name, Extension
New Here............................................................ Terri Coe, 308 Adult Class Registration...................................... Laura Marine, 332 Childcare Needs for Meetings/Events................ Kristi Chamberlain, 307 Member Care/Death/Hospitalization Stephen Ministry Request.................................. Mary Katherine Schnitz, 365 Membership/Births/Address/Phone Change..... Sylvia Forbes, 343 Special Events/Room Reservation...................... Heather Backus, 325 Weddings............................................................ Allison Flickinger, 370 Baptisms............................................................. Kristi Chamberlain, 307 Pledge Balance/Information............................... Faina Kleyner, 313 Oasis Bookstore.................................................. Sharon Holyoak, 350 Communication/Marketing Support.................. Patricia Case, 328 Early Childhood Weekday Program.................... Mollie Smith, 844-3399 The Garden......................................................... Judy Tolley, 310
Sermons at St. Luke’s
Staff email is last name followed by first initial, followed by @stlukesumc. com, for example: casep@stlukesumc.com
As we conclude The Amazing Race Sermon Series, which helped us focus on the places Jesus takes us, we will begin, “The Amazing Grace: Places Jesus Meets Us.”
April 12 • Jesus meets us in our fear The Upper Room I - John 20:19-23
April 19 • Jesus meets us in our doubt Upper Room II - John 20:24-29
April 26 • Jesus meets us in our failure Peter’s restoration - John 21:1-19
May 3 • Jesus meets us in our loss Walk to Emmaus - Luke 23:13-32
Special Sunday Celebrations Ahead May 10: Mother’s Day May 17: Confirmation May 24: Memorial Day
1 Many Worship Styles.
One Community.
St. Luke’s is an open community of Christians, offering multiple worship opportunities designed to meet you where you are in your journey with Christ. To receive e-devotions related to Sunday’s sermon – sign up for Pastor Rob’s Rev-elation e-newsletter: www.stlukesumc.com/e-newsletters. (Select Pastor’s Message)
New Options Traditional @8, 9:15 & 11AM At a
New HOur Beginning April 12, we embrace a new Sunday morning schedule to accommodate an additional 11AM Traditional Service in Robertson Chapel NEW WORSHIP TIMES 8, 9:15 & 11AM - Traditional 11AM - Contemporary FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: Donuts and coffee will follow the first two services of the day. Light lunch will be served at Noon, after the 11AM services conclude. Worshipers are encouraged to stay and engage in fellowship together April 12, 19 & 26.
8, 9:15AM in the Sanctuary and 11AM in Robertson Chapel with Rev. Rob Fuquay, Senior Pastor – These services feature relevant messages by our senior pastor, while engaging worshipers in a robust musical experience. Organ, Chancel Choir, and on the third Sunday of each month, a full Orchestra lift hearts and minds in praise of God. The style of liturgy invites the worshiper into a setting that includes sacraments of the church in a time-honored, yet forward-looking way.
Contemporary @11AM 11AM in the Sanctuary with Rev. Rob Fuquay, Senior Pastor – St. Luke’s includes in its family of worship styles a contemporary service on Sunday mornings in the Sanctuary. It features relevant messages by our senior pastor along with amazing musical talent and a more relaxed, interactive environment.
Later @St. Luke’s - 6PM
6PM in Robertson Chapel with Dr. Marion Miller – Experience a multi-faceted worship service that draws on cultural expressions of spirituals, Gospel, hymns and jazz music; featuring Later Band and Vocals, and a thought-provoking message. Communion is served every Sunday. Light refreshments before and after worship.
The Garden @8:45 & 10AM 8:45 & 10AM at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre with Dr. Linda McCoy – The Garden is a satellite ministry of St. Luke’s providing non-traditional worship in a comfortable, casual setting. Music is provided by The Good Earth Band. The worship experience is hosted off campus at 9301 Michigan Rd., Indianapolis. It is designed to reach out to those who might not otherwise engage with an established Christian community.
Taizé @5PM Begins Sunday, April 12
5-5:45PM Third Sunday of each month, by the baptismal font in the Sanctuary, with musical community and Rev. Kim King – This service of peace and candlelight offers a contemplative style of worship. Silence, scriptures, prayer and music combine to engage worshipers in a spiritual experience.
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April/May 2015 Connections@St. Luke’s
Sometimes Mentoring is Just Reminding Undergrads
We Haven’t Forgotten Them Research on the topic says You – the adult who is not their youth pastor; who makes a point to stay in touch with them after high school – You are what makes a youth’s faith stick after graduation. So, are you one of the adults who keeps in touch? Here are some reasons you might think about it.
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April/May 2015 Connections@St. Luke’s
By Mindie Moore Director of Emerging Adults Sunday mornings are exciting. The St. Luke’s Student Ministries Team gets to spend time worshipping with and teaching our students about God’s big love for them. But Sunday classes last about one hour; high school is only four years. What happens after caps hit the ground, lockers are cleaned out, and youth group is a fond memory of the past? There’s no magic formula to helping a student’s faith stick after graduation, but research by the Fuller Youth Institute (FYI), founded out of Fuller Theological Seminary, offers some clues. FYI’s academic research around students, faith, and life after high school helped them create resources that empower churches to help teens cultivate a lifelong faith.
Sticky Faith
One of those resources is Sticky Faith, a book that says a major factor in a student’s faith sticking after high school is receiving contact from at least one adult (who isn’t their youth pastor) from their church during the first semester of college. The research goes on to tell us that college freshmen do not want to be “out of sight, out of mind.” Rather, they want to know that their home church cares and hasn’t forgotten about them. Armed with this knowledge, we created a College Mentor program here at St. Luke’s. The program pairs incoming college freshmen with adults in our congregation. For at least one year (hopefully more!), mentors invest in these freshmen. They send encouraging notes to students, visit campus or inviting the student and family over for dinner during breaks. Students know that there is a safe adult in their corner – that their church is pulling for them during one of life’s biggest transitions.
‘…they want to know that their home church cares and hasn’t forgotten about them…’
Proof’s in the Pudding
One successful mentoring pair is Purdue freshman Michael Wood and former St. Luke’s Director of Music Chuck Goehring. Although Chuck and Michael did not know each other well prior to the mentoring program, they do now. “Michael and I have shared visits, e-mails, lunches and dinners,” Chuck recounts. “We had a gathering with other Purdue students in our home before Michael began classes. It is exciting to hear of Michael’s successes and challenges and I support him in any way I can.” From a student’s perspective, Michael has also gained from the relationship. “What I’ve really enjoyed about him becoming my mentor is that he has not only gotten to know all about me, but I have also been able to get to know him very well,” Michael says. “As much of a mentorship this has become, it has also become a friendship. He has done a great job of not hovering over me 24/7, and has been a friendly and supportive presence that seems to check-in with me at the perfect times.” As the school year comes to a close, we hope to create more successful mentoring pairs like Michael and Chuck. Our prayer is that our church would have a shared passion for seeing students’ faith stick long after high school is over. Is mentoring a way that you could vision yourself investing in the future of St. Luke’s? If so, let’s have a conversation! Together, let’s help a generation of students develop lifelong faith that sticks.
To apply to be a mentor, contact Mindie Moore at Moorem@stlukesumc.com or call 317-846-3404, ext. 369.
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Our Mission: To welcome all youth and families into loving, Christ-centered relationships where they can get in tune with God’s amazing love and be empowered to transform the world! Register for any event at www.stlukesumc. com/youth. Kevin Davis, Director of Youth Ministry, davisk@stlukesumc. com; 846-3404 x326 Mindie Moore, Associate Director of Emerging Adults, Moorem@ stlukesumc.com, 84603404, x369 Heather Campbell, Associate Director of Youth Ministry, campbellh@ stlukesumc.com, 846-3404 x346 Colleen Baumgartner, Administrative Assistant, baumgartnerc@ stlukesumc.com. 846-3404 x323
Youth Sunday Morning Middle School (5th-6th Grade)
9:15-10:30AM @ The Modge (Modular building near Door 8) 10:45-11:45AM @ Luke’s Lodge The Modge is located between the main church building and Luke’s Lodge. Come early at 9AM for games, snacks, and hangout time! There is a highenergy time of worship, large group teaching, and breakouts into small groups with dedicated teachers.
Jr. High (7th-8th Grade)
9:15-10:30AM @ Luke’s Lodge 10:45-11:45AM @ Luke’s Lodge (5th-7th Grade) 10:45 - Sanctuary (8th Grade) Teens can check out a fun, welcoming atmosphere at the Lodge! Come early for game systems, ping pong, foosball, air hockey and pool. First, we head to the chapel for a game, live worship, a message and small groups. See you on Sundays!
High School
9:15-10:30AM, @ Luke’s Lodge 10:45AM, Sanctuary High school youth group meets on Sunday mornings in Luke’s Lodge for student-led worship, a brief message, small group breakouts, experiential learning, and time for hanging out with friends. Whether you’re already plugged in or new to high school youth activities, this is the place to connect! All high school youth and friends are welcome!
Events/Activities Confirmation Retreat April 18-19
Bradford Woods - April 18-19 - This is the culminating retreat for Confirmation where students have some great experiences designed to help them connect to the church and connect to God in new ways. Amazing Grace is the theme for the weekend, and students will share how God’s grace has changed their lives as they share their story in small groups.
Recognition & Brunch - April 26 for 2015 Graduating Seniors On April 26 we will celebrate the achievements of our high school seniors as they graduate from High School and prepare for their next step in life. Our seniors are invited to meet in the main building at 8:45AM and join the 9:15 and
11:00AM services for prayer. After being prayed for in the 11:00am service, we will transition to The Lodge for Brunch and a special program to honor our Graduating Seniors.
4th-6th Grade Celebration & Parents Meeting - May 3
Sunday, May 3 • 9:15-10:30AM • The Modge Family Ministries celebrates an exciting first year with its new pre-teen program in the Modge! We invite all current 4th-6th graders to a party on May 3rd in the Modge at 9:15AM complete with games, food, and fun with our Small Group Leaders. This party will be a great way for 4th grade students to get used to the Modge, as well as celebrate the work our leaders have put into this new and meaningful environment. Parents can attend a parent meeting and brunch where they will learn information about the middle school ministry program, summer activities, and ways to plug in. Look out for more information in the parent newsletters, or contact Heather Campbell.
Confirmation - May 17
After nine months of interacting with the story of the Bible, prayer, and growing in their faith with their small group, students will be confirmed at the 9:15 and 11:00AM services on May 17.
Year End Party - May 17
Come celebrate the end to another school year and the start of Summer! Evening filled with outdoors games, entertainment and dinner. 6:00-8:PM
Parents please join us May 17
You are our special guests on May 17, as we host an evening of fellowship and dinner for you as your youth attend the end of year party.
Kings Island - June 2
The summer is here, and we invite all 7-12 grade students to King’s Island for a day of fun, roller coasters, and fireworks! Check in at the Lodge at 7:30AM and return at midnight. Cost is $55. Sign up online.
Youth Car Wash - June 14
Sunday, June 14 • 8AM - 12:30PM • Back of St. Luke’s Parking Lot Join us for our annual Father’s Day Car Wash! Youth will clean cars while their owners are in worship or via our convenient drive-through line. Fun, fellowship and funding! All donations go to lower the cost of our Summer Mission trips.
Youth/Emerging Adults
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SUMMER CAMP
Middle School Mayhem; Rising 5th-7th Grade, June 15-19 MIDDLE SCHOOL MAYHEM will take place at Luke’s Lodge June 15th through 19th at the same time as Summer Splash. Our theme this year will be “MOUNT MAYHEM.” We’ll learn about Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount throughout the week. We’ll have a unique environment for Middle School— with our own band and time of worship, recreation and games, snacks, service projects, and time for a message and reflection in small groups. There will also be an extended afternoon option for Middle School—we’ll go to the MoCenter for swimming, volunteer with local ministry partners, and have more time to dig into the things that Jesus talked. The final schedule and
permission slip will be available beginning in May. Anyone who signs up before then will be emailed these items. The cost for the morning MSM session is $25 for the week, and the cost for the extended-day option is $50 for the week. For more information and to sign up, go to stlukesumc.com/youth. For more information (especially if you’d like to volunteer!), email Heather Campbell, Associate Director of Youth Ministry for Junior High, at campbellh@ stlukesumc.com. Incoming 8th through 12th grades can volunteer at Summer Splash or Middle School Mayhem by signing up online.
Emerging Adult Connection Groups Connect with other 18- to 29-year-olds in weekly small group community. St. Luke’s is a big church, so the best way to make deep friendships is to commit to a small group! For more information on our young adult small group offerings, contact Mindie Moore by email: MooreM@stlukesumc.com.
VolleyBall Emerging Adults Gather for Monthly Dinner & Worship
Every 3rd Friday • 6:30PM • The Lodge The Table is a monthly connecting time that gives us a chance to gather for a meal, worship, and communion. We’ll hear a message, share stories, and sing songs in a simple, communal format. Our worship will combine a mix of hymns and contemporary, and will all be very simple and reflective. We’ll be modeling this gathering after the Early Church: no one is a spectator, everyone has something to offer in this space. That means that from cooking the meal, to setting the table, to welcoming people as they arrive – everyone plays a role as we acknowledge that everyone, yes you, has a gift to share. @LiveInTuneYM
stlukesumc.com/youth
Mondays, 8:30-9:30PM, St. Luke’s Gym (Great Hall). Unwind after a long day with a round of volleyball with friends. Led by Kelly Scott (ScottK@stlukesumc.com).
Post-College Women’s Group
Every Tuesday Night at 6PM. This group of women meets weekly for community and growing together in faith!
Young Adult Couples, Take Note!
Every Tuesday night at 7PM • Zack and Mindie Moore’s home (contact Mindie for the address). We’ll start as a Lenten Small Group, and morph into something longer term.
Facebook Groups
Check out our Facebook groups: “St. Lukes UMC - College Students” or “St. Luke’s UMC - Young Adult Ministries” to stay updated on all events and to connect with other members.
Join our Facebook groups!
@liveintunejh and @liveintunehs
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All Sons & Daughters Tickets Online Doors open at 6:00PM, and the worship experience starts at 6:30PM. Tickets in advance can be purchased at www.attendstar. com. Prices range from $10 to $12 based on group or individual rates. Tickets available at the door.
A portion of the proceeds will support Outreach Inc., a ministry bringing hope to homeless teens in Indianapolis.
Worship
April 7 • 6:30PM • Sanctuary
All Sons & Daughters to Lead ‘Worship & Conversation’ in All-Church Event April 7 St. Luke’s is excited to welcome national recording artists All Sons & Daughters for an Evening of Worship and Conversation. This event is open to the entire community as it invites all ages into a time of interactive worship featuring hands-on reflection stations and sing-a-long songs, as well as an optional conversation following worship, led by Storyteller Jamie George.
people, for the people and of the people. In the truest sense, the mesmerizing, soul-baring lyrics and acoustic styling of this talented duo are beginning to make an impact – inside and outside the church.
‘...packed with energy and freedom – and a sing-alongability that is the hallmark of folk music in any era.…’
Described as “Modern Folk,” (think Mumford and Sons, The Avett Brothers and Neon Trees, among others) the organic, musical style of All Sons & Daughters is packed with energy and freedom – and a sing-along-ability that is the hallmark of folk music in any era.
For All Sons & Daughters’ Leslie Jordan and David Leonard, these qualities are even more keenly experienced in music that connects broken people with their God. Worship leaders at Journey Church in Franklin, TN, their critically acclaimed recordings, Brokenness Aside, Reason To Sing and The Longing, along with their full length albums, Season One and Live bear witness to the power of worship by the
“All Sons & Daughters takes great care to make music that meets people where they are, to find the pulse of the people in the cities where they play, to serve and resource musicians and worship leaders,” according to their website. As always, their song lyrics are free online. They continue to take advantage of any opportunity to start new conversations about what worship might look like when approached as a true reflection of the heart, however fragmented, however weak, however strong. This concert is brought to St. Luke’s as a gift of the Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the church, as an invitation into conversation about the many ways this community worships; a conversation about how the emerging worship styles complement more traditional expressions – and how those expressions live side by side.
Worship Holy Week Services Bring Closure to Lent Jerusalem Dinner - April 2
Maundy Thursday will begin with “Jerusalem Dinner,” a meal event open to the church community, Thursday, April 2, 5:30-6:50PM in Fellowship & Great Halls at St. Luke’s. The Mediterranean meal serves as closure for Lenten small groups, which drew hundreds of St. Luker’s together for study and reflection throughout the season. (Tickets are $10/each. Childcare available.) Participants will be invited to the Sanctuary for the worship service to follow.
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Purdue Choir - April 12
The Purdue Varsity Glee Club will present a Spring Concert on April 12 at 3PM. This high energy group is fun for all ages. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students. The proceeds will benefit the St. Luke’s benevolence fund.
Maundy Thursday - April 2
7PM Maundy Thursday service of worship, marking Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples in the Upper Room.
Good Friday - April 3
Two Good Friday services (Noon & 7PM in the Sanctuary) will be conducted. The services will commemorate Jesus’ Crucifixion and Death at Golgotha.
Easter Sunday Worship - April 5
Celebrate Resurrection with the St. Luke’s community on Easter Sunday morning, with a variety of service options! This year, the St. Luke’s Choirs, organ and instruments will be serving in the Sanctuary at 8:00 & 9:30AM, and Robertson Chapel at 9:30 & 11:15AM (video message). A joyous contemporary service will be held in the Sanctuary at 11:15AM. Hallways and parking will be full throughout the morning. St. Luke’s members are encouraged to attend the 8:00AM service to make space available for our many visitors and guest. Parking Tip: The fastest way on and off campus will be by parking at Spring Mill Elementary School, and catching the complimentary shuttle service which will drop you off and pick you up right at the church’s front door! Easter Worship Schedule 8:00AM - Sanctuary (Traditional) 9:30AM - Sanctuary (Traditional) 9:30AM - Robertson Chapel (Traditional) 11:15AM - Sanctuary (Contemporary) 11:15AM - Robertson Chapel (Traditional) 6:00 PM - Robertson Chapel (Later @ St. Luke’s Multi-Cultural Service)
Cathedral Concert - May 17
Sunday, May 17, 3PM • Sanctuary The St. Luke’s Chancel Choir presents their semi-annual Cathedral Concert on Sunday, May 17 (3PM) in the Sanctuary. This “bon voyage” concert anticipates the ensemble’s 2015 Concert Tour of Spain, featuring the repertoire which they will sing in Madrid, Segovia, Barcelona and Monserrat. From Renaissance motets to American folk hymns and spirituals, the Cathedral Concert is a wonderful opportunity to invite friends and neighbors to enjoy the ministry of these musicians! The concert is free, and the community is cordially invited!
If You Love Tech, Check This Out!
If you’re fascinated by stage lighting, love the behind-the-scenes place of audio cables, ipads and sound reinforcement, OR love the artistic possibilities of projection during worship, the AVMedia Ministry is excited to meet you! Director Jason Barnes (barnesj@stlukesumc.com) is expanding the team that creates so much of the production ‘magic’ at St. Luke’s, and is welcoming individuals of various levels of experience. Loving to serve is key. Contact Jason for more information and to explore the possibilities of service!
Looking for Your Place to Serve?
There are a variety of involvement schedules and musical levels where you can become involved with St. Luke’s Music Ministries. There are even non-musical needs to help support the hundreds of music makers. If you’d like to share your gifts in music ministry, contact the Music Ministry Office at squirem@stlukesumc. com to learn more about the rewarding possibilities!
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Adult Learning
Registration & Child Care
9:15AM Sunday
April/May May 2014 2015 Connections@St. Luke’s
Please pre-register if you would like to request our complementary childcare, which is offered for some of the classes. Visit www.stlukesumc. com, type the class name in the upper right search bar and then click on the link to the class. If the Internet baffles you, call us as 317-846-3404 and ask for help.
The Garden Women’s Retreat
Plan to attend this Women’s Retreat “An Altar in the World.” The retreat will begin Fri., May 15 at Waycross Retreat Center in Brown County, Indiana, with the evening meal and end at noon on Sunday. You may contact Judy Tolley, tolleyj@stlukesumc. com to express your interest.
“On Being” Discussion - Ongoing
Sundays, 9:15AM, Spiritual Life Center If you are a fan of Krista Tippett’s “On Being” radio show airing Sundays, FM90.1, then join Betty Brandt for a lively discussion of each week’s show. Krista interviews authors, spiritual leaders, storytellers, entertainers, scientists, and political activists. Listen to the show prior to class at www. onbeing.org. Podcasts of the show are posted on the Friday before the Sunday airing.
10:30AM/Later Sunday Adult Sunday School
Sundays, April 12-May 17, 10:30-11:30AM, N101/102 Miracles: What They Are, Why They Happen, and How They Change Your Life, by Eric Metaxas – Why do so many people believe in Miracles? What do they tell us about ourselves? What do we do with experiences that we cannot explain? Miracles is a timely, thoughtful, and civil answer to the books of the “New Atheists” – which assert not just the impossibility of miracles and the supernatural, but the harmfulness of belief in them. A more current and personal version of C. S. Lewis’s 1947 book on the subject, Miracles suggests that miracles not only are possible but that they also are far more widespread than most of us ever might have imagined. Led by Bill Shaffer. Books available in Oasis Bookstore.
Empty Nesters - Ongoing
Sundays, 10:30-11:30AM, Parlor This Sunday school class/social group started when participants were new empty nesters. They continue to face post-empty-nest challenges together, and welcome others to morning studies and monthly dinner or other events beyond the classroom.
Sermon Discussion - Ongoing
Sundays, 10:45AM, N103/104 Adults discuss the sermon after the 8 or 9:15AM service. Craig Overmyer & Gary Chambers lead.
New Perspectives - Ongoing
Sundays, 10:45-11:45AM, Spiritual Life Center
A welcoming community of theologically diverse people seeking a place to respectfully share and explore ways to deepen their faith and increase understanding of what it means to be Christian. Expect DVD series with discussion led by Don Reed.
Weekdays for Women Christian Chat
2nd & 4th Mondays, 10-11:30AM, Spiritual Life Center Drop in for interesting discussions about Christian topics and to enjoy fellowship in this class designed for busy women. Each session is self-contained, and there is no homework. Join as your schedule permits, and come late or leave early as needed.
Women’s Bible Study
Wednesdays, April 8-May 20, 1:15-2:15PM, E105 Join Leader Terri Coe and other women for lively conversations related to various Bible studies be they of a book of the Bible, theme-related, or character studies. This spring we’ll “Go Deeper with Christ” as we study I John. Learn how to experience deep joy, hope, confidence and find a walk with God that sustains you no matter what may come your way.
Thursday Afternoon Book Study Thursdays, 1-2:30PM, Parlor Join this group to read and discuss a diverse selection of literature.
Small Groups
St. Luke’s continues to watch for opportunities for small groups of members and friends to gather in intentional groups that find lasting relationship with one another. To learn more, contact Laura Marine, Adult Ministries Administrative Assistant, marinel@stlukesumc.com
Weekdays for All Adults Morning Bible Study
Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30AM, The Forum at The Crossing An off-site senior adult Bible Study. Led by Terri Coe, Mary Katherine Schnitz and others.
Pastors’ Book Study - Ongoing
Wednesdays, 10-11:30AM, Parlor The Pastors’ Book Study has rotating staff members leading discussions on books throughout
Adult Learning
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the year. Following Easter, Pastor Jamalyn Peigh Williamson will lead the discussion, on the book Toxic Charity. No registration necessary. Books are available in Oasis.
Café Conversation
Wednesdays, 9:30-11AM, E105 Join Pastor Marion Miller for a thoughtful discussion of Marcus Borg’s book, Convictions.
New 6-Week Classes Offered April 9 - May 14 • Parlor Join St. Luke’s women in the Parlor on Thursday mornings for coffee, refreshment and fellowship at 9:15 and then move into one of the following classes from 9:30 to 10:45. Childcare is provided. Register online at www.stlukesumc. com or call Adult Ministries at 317-846-3404 with questions. All ages of women are invited. Sacred Compass: The Way of Spiritual Discernment Join us as we learn from author J. Brent Bill to “open way” for God’s leading in our lives through accessing our inner compass. Books in Oasis Bookstore. Led by Bev Gallagher. Meets in Parlor. No More Perfect Moms: Learn to Love Your Real Life Author Jill Savage exposes some of her own parental shortcomings with the goal of helping mothers everywhere shelve their desires for perfection. Note: Will not start until April 16th and will finish May 14th. Led by Heather Hilbert. Meets in E107/109. The Miracles of Jesus In six interactive small group sessions, this DVD gives you an in-depth look at the miracles of Jesus. Realize their impact on the lives he touched, what they reveal about God’s heart, and their significance for us today. Participant guide contains maps, pictures, outlines, key Scripture verses, discussion questions, room for note taking, and a personal five-day Bible study for
each session. Available in the Oasis Bookstore. Led by Debra Peek. Meets in E213. The God We Can Know: Exploring the “I Am” Sayings of Jesus In The God We Can Know Sr. Pastor Rob Fuquay explores the “I Am” sayings of Jesus found in the Gospel of John. The DVD, filmed on location in the Holy Land, allows you to travel with Rob Fuquay and actually see the places where Jesus stood when he disclosed his true identity, and in what context he spoke each “I Am.” Books in Oasis Bookstore. Led by Wanda Thompson. Meets in N101/102.
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Disciple Bible Study Puts Students Editor’s Note: On Sunday, May 24, when he visits St. Luke’s with his family, Bishop Richard Wilke may not be thinking about the Indy 500 Race scheduled across town in Indianapolis. But that’s no indication that he is not a fan of the “Fast Track.” In 1986, he and his spouse, Julia Wilke, finished writing Disciple Bible Study. Later, their daughter Susan (Wilke) Fuquay, would shift her parent’s work into high gear when she created Disciple Bible Study Fast Track. To learn more about all three Wilkes, Connections spoke with Susan Fuquay recently.
By Daniel R. Gangler “My dad’s biggest legacy is writing Disciple Bible Study,” Susan Fuquay says, unequivocally. Bishop Richard and Julia Wilke are credited with increasing biblical literacy in the United Methodist Church over the last 25 years with this popular scripture study. But Susan admires her father for a lot more than this accomplishment. “He loves all people. He’s always positive.” Susan and her three siblings (Stephen, Paul and Sarah), always hear him say: “Today is the greatest day of my life. It’s the only day I’ve got.”
All in the Family
“Working with my Dad was really fun. He is always very positive. I had no conflict with him. Working with him on Disciple Fast Track was the easiest part of the whole project,” she said. During her life, she has learned this important characteristic about him. “He has a faith that God will overcome and Dad doesn’t dwell in the negatives. He has faith that everything is going to be fine. Not bad for someone who grew up in a funeral home helping his father with the family business!”
Two Million Grads
For nearly 30 years, the Wilkes have dedicated their lives and ministry to That affirmation drives his daily living. Disciple Bible Study. Disciple has had Furthermore, he practices what he well over two million graduates in congregation wouldn’t teach a preaches, she says. more than 10,000 congregations in 30 Sunday school class because “For us, what Dad said before denominations. The four-phase series everybody from the pulpit is what he is now available in German, Korean, ‘he didn’t know that much also said to us at home. He was not Spanish and Chinese and includes a a preacher dad and another dad, but book for facilitators. about the Bible,’ Wilke began to always the same dad.” “Disciple is not a lecture series, Susan believes that because of the but a group experience of learning conceive of Disciple Bible Study. authentic faith of both her mother about the Bible and each other during and father, every one of the Wilke a 34-week course of study reading children is now a leader in the life of more than 70 percent of the Bible. the church in some capacity. “It was the first Bible study series Six years ago, Susan, with the help of her father began produced by the United Methodist Publishing House that creating Disciple Bible Study FastTrack (disciplefasttrack.com) an included video. That was mom’s idea,” said Susan. abbreviated version of the classic Disciple Bible Study created by The Wilkes believe small groups are a catalyst for her parents in 1986. transformation, because of the community component. Those “In Disciple Fast Track, People read the Bible, spend 24 weeks involved with a small group are more likely to become daily Bible (instead of 34) in weekly 75-minute sessions (instead of 2½ readers. To date there are four phases to the series making it a possible four-year study. hours),” she said. It’s designed for people with busy lifestyles.”
‘He Lives it’
When a lawyer in Bishop Wilke’s
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on ‘FastTrack’ to Biblical Literacy Equipping Disciples for Leadership
A spin-off from the study has been “The Richard and Julia Wilke Institute for Discipleship” based in Winfield, Kans., where Bishop Wilke serves as Bishop-in-Residence at Southwestern College, a United Methodist-related school. The institute was formed as an extension of their life-long ministry and service to the church. The institute also offers a website service at BeADisciple.com and an online academy for youth and young adults. Susan’s brother, Stephen, is executive director and a vice president of the college. According to Susan, the idea for Disciple Bible Study series came out of her father’s congregation at First United Methodist Church in Wichita, when he asked a lawyer in the congregation to teach a Sunday school class. The lawyer told Pastor Wilke, he didn’t feel qualified to do so because he didn’t know that much about the Bible. That experience with this leading layman led Wilke to begin working on an adult Bible study that would take people from Genesis to Revelation. He took the idea with him when he was elected a bishop in 1984 and left his native Kansas for Arkansas. “Being elected bishop and assigned to Arkansas was exciting for my mom who is a native of Texarkana. She felt like she was coming home,” said Susan. He created the series with the United Methodist Publishing House in Nashville, Tenn. Together with Julia and a team of editors, they developed the series that evolved into what it is today.
Disciple at St. Luke’s
Ironically, Dr. Kent Millard, former lead pastor at St. Luke’s, was one of the first trainers in the very first Disciple series. The series has been an adult education staple at St. Luke’s for a quarter century. The FastTrack version of the study was introduced by Susan four years ago. Since then more than 500 members and guests of St. Luke’s have studied the FastTrack version. But respect for the series lives well beyond United Methodist circles. John Schwartz of Edina, Minn. listed the Disciple Bible Study as one of the 20 most popular Bible studies in the country in an article for Word and World, a publication of Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minn. He said the student manuals were excellent. “A unique feature of Disciple is the use of professionally prepared 10-minute videotaped lectures; these are scholarly presentations on key themes and passages.” The Wilkes designed Disciple Bible Study to be a transformational study which identifies participant’s spiritual gifts for ministry and then challenges them to go out and make a difference in the world for Jesus Christ.
Bishop Richard and Julia Wilke
The Wilkes plan to speak at the Disciple Bible Study Celebration on Tuesday, May 26 at 6:30PM in the Great Hall. This event will be a pitch-in dinner. The dinner recognizes all Disciple Bible Study graduates. Disciple students, their families and anyone interested are invited.
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Preschool Sunday Morning Options:
Positive Solutions for Families
Learn ways to improve relationships, manage behaviors, clarify expectations and rules, help kids manage emotions, promote positive behaviors and work together as a family! Thursdays, April 16-May 21, 6-8PM, E105; $180/person Led by St. Luke’s member Lindsay Gayle, LMHC and Jennifer Vincent, MS. Contact: counselinggroups01@ gmail.com to register.
Preschool at 9:15 & 10:45AM
April – Happy Easter! Jesus is alive! This month is all about “Go and Tell,” and we’ve even written a cheer to help your preschoolers remember. On the first Sunday of April, we will celebrate Easter with our preschoolers. Then, your little ones will hear the great commission—how Jesus asked His disciples to “go and tell” everyone everywhere about Him. They will learn about Peter, who was put in jail because he was so good at “going and telling,” and the angel God sent to free him. Finally, they will hear about Paul and Silas who were also amazing at the “go and tell” mission. They’ll get to reenact the earthquake that God sent to free them from jail. Through each of these stories we pray that our children will learn that God wants us to “go and tell” also, and that He is with us as we do. May - The Happy Helpers Club is back! At a young age, children start saying, “I help.” It’s our responsibility to teach them how to help. God wants them to help others, so let’s make sure they know how to do it! We’ll hear how Ruth helped Naomi by staying with her when she could have returned to her hometown. Then, Boaz helped them both by making sure they were cared for. We can help others by being with them in a time of crisis and making sure they have what they need. Preschoolers will learn about Nehemiah and how he led an entire city to rebuild their wall. We can help others by leading them to accomplish a task. Then, they’ll experience the story of the woman who built a room for Elisha so that he had somewhere to rest when he was in town. We can help others by providing them hospitality. Finally, preschoolers will hear how Aaron and his friends helped Moses by physically holding up his arms to help the army win an important battle. We can help others by helping them do something as well as standing by them during a hard time. The children will finish off the month with a Happy Helper Party where they will receive a certificate that they are an official member of the Happy Helper Club.
Elementary at 9:15 & 10:45AM
April - Peace Do you want your children to grow up to be angry? I’m talking about out-of-control, selfcentered, short-fused, “I’m gonna hurt somebody if I don’t get my way” kind of angry? Of course not. The truth is there are a lot of people who are walking around angry. Somehow they grew up and missed a simple principle that is critical to life. Peace. Peace is part of God’s character and what Jesus came to do for us. God wants us to reflect peace in our relationships with others. We define peace like this: proving you care more about each other than about winning an argument. It’s interesting that peace almost always requires some type of sacrifice. There will be a time in nearly every relationship when you will have to give up something you care about to make peace. Peace will cost you something. Even our relationship with God required sacrifice: God goes to great lengths to restore the relationship between us when it is broken. God sent His Son to make it abundantly clear what this
Saturday, April 4 9-11AM Games & activities celebrating the true meaning of Easter, an egg hunt & of course, the big guy, the Easter Bunny!
Children relationship is supposed to look like. Peace is more than just “not fighting” and saying the right things to keep people happy. Peace is living in a way that shows you care more about others than about being right. It’s about building strong relationships through mutual trust. Jesus’ whole life demonstrates that kind of love. Working at relationships is hard. It costs us something. It takes time; requires swallowing our pride, and can even mean walking away from the chance to prove we’re “right.” That’s why we start by getting everyone to memorize something Paul said in the book of Romans. “So let us do all we can to live in peace. And let us work hard to build each other up,” (Romans 14:19, NIrV) May - Honesty Honesty is choosing to be truthful in whatever you say and do. When we’re honest, when our words line up with our actions, people know they can trust us. Our relationships grow stronger. God understands the relationship between honesty and trust. This is something God set into motion in the first place. Since the beginning, God has been in the business of making and keeping promises. God told Abraham that he would be the father of a great nation of people—he was. God told the Israelites that He would provide for them in the desert—He did. God told Joshua that the wall of Jericho would fall if the people marched around it for seven
days—it did. God told Mary that she would give birth a Son, Jesus—she did. That baby boy was the answer to a promise God had set in motion from the beginning: God kept His promise. When we were lost, He came through and sent Jesus, the Messiah, the One who in whom we can ultimately put all of our trust. God is honest. He has proven from the beginning that He can be trusted. We’re called to reflect the image of God to a world around us that is desperate for people who will live with integrity. We want kids to begin building the kind of lives that show they can be trusted. Because they know the One who can be trusted above any other. We start the month with Proverbs 10:9, “Anyone who lives without blame walks safely.” Being honest isn’t just about the words you say, it’s really about the life you live. Being honest comes much easier when you are an honest person and live your life with integrity. As we look at great stories and principles from the Bible, we hope that kids begin to live with honesty and integrity, that what they say will line up with what they do. But this won’t always be easy. That’s why our memory verse for the month can serve as a prayer for our kids when they need God’s strength to tell the truth. Psalm 119:29 says “Keep me from cheating and telling lies. Be kind and teach me your law.” We pray that this month will be a great reminder to all of us to be honest no matter what the situation looks like.
The Sailor’s Bible The St. Luke’s Children’s Musical
Sunday, April 26 • Great Hall 9:15AM • Performance for Sunday School Classes 2PM • Performance for Parents and the Public “The Sailor’s Bible” is a musical for young voices featuring three stories from the Bible based: Noah and the Great Flood, Jonah and the Great Fish, and Paul’s Shipwreck. Each story centers around the ocean as a symbol of chaos in our lives with ever changing winds, high waves, and brutal storms, but the tales show us how God can calm the stormy seas if we only have faith and believe. There is no cost of admission to either of the performances. However, the Children’s Choir members, as always, will have a mission project in conjunction with the musical. For those who like please bring gently used books and take part in our “Flood of Children’s Books” for the Crooked Creek Food Pantry. For more details, please contact Debra Nethercott, Children’s Music Director, nethercottd@stlukesumc.com.
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Music, Art & Drama (MAD Camp)
New this summer. Sign up your children to help them explore their creative side. More details and registration at www.stlukesumc. com.
@StLukesTrack or text “follow @ stlukestrack” to 40404 stlukesumc.com/ ministries/children
St. Luke’s UMC The Track
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April/May2014 February 2015 Communion Connections@St. Luke’s
Spiritual Life Center SPIRITUALITY AND THE ARTS
Find SLC On Facebook
“St. Luke’s UMC – Spiritual Life Center.”
Spiritual Life Center’s Blog
The Spiritual Life Center now has a blog at slcblog. stlukesumc.com. Watch for posts about trends in spiritual development, interesting spiritual journeys, new ideas, poetry and comments from Spiritual Life Center classes and events. If you would like to be a contributing writer, please contact Betty Brandt at brandtb@ stlukesumc.com or 317-846-3404 x339.
St. Luke’s at the Movies
Third Friday of the month, 7-9PM, Parlor April 24 - “Chef” is a 2014 American comedydrama about a professional chef who, after a public altercation with a food critic, quits his job at a popular Los Angeles restaurant and returns to his home town of Miami to fix up a food truck. He reconnects with his ex-wife and invites their young son to join him in driving the truck back to L.A. May 22 - “20 Feet From Stardom” is a 2013 documentary that follows the behind-the-scenes careers of backup singers and stars Darlene Love, Judith Hill, Merry Clayton, Lisa Fischer, Táta Vega, and Jo Lawry, among many others. It won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
Artists of the Month - April/May
Works found on the 2nd floor of the Narthex. April - Jim Nethercott’s interactive exhibit will invite viewers to interact with three large angel photos, then share stories about times in their lives when they felt God’s messengers in their own lives. Jim will print the stories that are shared, including his own, and place printed copies in the exhibit. May - Turner Woodard owns the Stutz Building, which houses artists and galleries. He collect scars, races cars, and is a generous philanthropist. Turner calls his art style Abstract Enthusiasm. See his “WOW” series, which presents subliminal words (such as wow, love or the viewer’s name) under thickly splattered, twisted and turned paints.
Crochet Guild of Indianapolis
1st Saturday of the month, 10AM-Noon, E107/109 Learn to crochet and contribute to on-going projects. Contact Edie Huffman, 317-228-0496.
this class will help you gain balance, strength and flexibility in your body and peace and calm in your mind. All levels are welcome to join. Register/pay online, www.stlukesumc.com. New classes begin May 11 & 14, respectively.
Prayer and Meditation
Moving Meditation
Thursdays 10:30-11:30AM, Luke’s Lodge - $10 Meditation creates balance and helps the body heal and relieves stress. This class will practice a form of standing meditation which can be done in a chair if needed. Equip yourself to serve by taking good care of your body/mind/spirit.
Ongoing Meditation Group
Mondays, 6:30-7:30PM, Spiritual Life Center Join in a 30-minute discussion followed by 30 minutes of Christian meditation. You will find support for your practice, new ideas and a community of others who welcome silence. Led by Merri Leffel.
HEALING MINISTRY
Healing Partners Appointments
Sessions to re-energize and relax persons to enable their own natural resources to deal with illness or injury. Process honors all faith traditions. Call 317-846-3404 x442 for a daytime or evening appointment. No fee, donations appreciated.
Book Studies & Workshops
Sunrise Book Study
Body/Mind/Spirit
Wednesdays, 7-8:30AM, Parlor. Start your day with friends, prayer, a good book, stimulating discussion and personal enrichment. Contact Betty Brandt at 317-846-3404 or brandtb@stlukesumc.com.
Gentle Yoga Class
Spiritual Book Study
Monday & Thursday 5:30-6:30PM, N103/104, $8/ session - Open to all ages and abilities, this gentle yoga class welcomes those not flexible enough to sit on the floor (chairs provided) as well as those who can sit on the floor (bring a mat and a blanket). Taught by Carol Holden.
Yoga for Stress
Mondays, Mar. 9 - April 2,9:30-10:45AM $96 Thursdays, Mar 12 - April 30, 8:30-9:45AM; $96 All classes in N103/104 – Walk-ins $15/class Ending with a 15-minute guided deep relaxation,
Tuesdays, 11AM-12:30PM, Spiritual Life Center Group members suggest and select books that will stretch awareness on spiritual subjects. Expect lively discussions. New members are welcome! Contact JoAnne Waeltz, 317-872-0895
New Earth Community
Thursdays, 7-8:30PM, Spiritual Life Center This study group discusses innovative and challenging spiritual books. Contact JoAnne Waeltz, 317-872-0895.
Care Grief Ministries
Healing Under Grief Support
2PM Sundays in the Parlor, with dinner out at 4PM If you have finished a small group grief support experience, HUGS may be a next-step group. This group is ongoing for anyone who has lost a spouse or significant life partner. Contact Marsha Hutchinson, marsha2944@gmail.com
HOPE
Monthly, 2nd Tuesday, 7PM, Spiritual Life Center For anyone who has lost a baby to miscarriage, fetal demise, stillbirth, or early infant death. For more information contact Marsha Hutchinson at marsha2944@gmail.com. A memorial garden is located on the west side of St. Luke’s for any perinatal or infant loss. Engraved plaques may be ordered and mounted on the brick garden wall. For information contact Marci and Jim Harenberg at 317-705-0771.
Men’s Spousal Loss Grief Group
Every Thursday from 1-2PM in Luke’s Lodge (northeast corner of church property) This men’s group will meet for fellowship and support and to allow a safe and confidential place to “say it all” with other men who understand this complex journey. Whether you have lost a spouse recently or years ago, you are invited to join. For more information, call Bob Shive at 317-253-8184, or rlshive@yahoo.com.
Dad’s Child Loss Grief Group
For any father who has lost a young adult child. The Dad’s group meets every Tuesday at 7AM for light breakfast at the Le Peep, 8255 Craig Street, Castleton area, and Thursdays at 7AM at Denny’s at I-65/Greenwood Exit.
Support Groups
Chronic Pain Support Group
Apr. 20 & May 15, 6:30PM, N101/102 A support group for patients with all types of neuropathic and fibromyalgia pain and for their families and friends. No registration is required. Questions? Contact Dr. Meg Frazer at 317-844-2903 or margaret.L.frazer@pfizer.com.
Family Support Group
Apr. 8 & May 13, 6:30PM, Conference Room Emotional and spiritual support for families who have a member abusing drugs or alcohol.
Adult ADD Support Group
Thursday, Apr. 16 & May 21, 7-8:30PM, W125. Support for adults with ADD. For more information call Mary Katherine Schnitz at 317-846-3404 x365.
Caregiver Support Group
Second Tuesdays of the month, 6:30-8PM Main Office Conference Room There are no rehearsals for this new role in which many find themselves caring for aging parents just as they prepare to be empty nesters. Contact Tina Voelker (dtsnag@sbcglobal.net) or Leanne Jackson (LRJackson57@gmail.com) for more information.
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Free Blood Pressure Screening
9-10:30AM Apr. 12 & May 10 Conference Room in Main Office (watch for signs) Join us for this free service on the 2nd Sunday of every month.
St. Luke’s Health Ministry A Chance to Care; a Chance to Heal
Spiritual, emotional and physical health are naturally connected. Whether you have time and skill to share or learn, or you are in need of health care services, Health Ministries & Parish Nurses offer services and programming that support the integration of a healthy lifestyle into the life of faith. Offerings include screenings, assessments, blood drives, and educational seminars that help individuals examine lifestyle choices that promote wellness. To volunteer or to register for classes or care, contact st.lukeshealthministry@gmail.com.
Need To Talk To Someone Who Cares?
Even though Spring is here and the days are longer and warmer, you may not feel any brighter. If you struggle with sadness, loneliness or depression, please contact a member of our care team. We are ready to support you. Call the church at 846-3404 or email Rev. Kim King at kingk@stlukesumc.com. We are here to listen.
THINK STEPHEN!
When those difficult times appear in your life, THINK STEPHEN. Stephen Ministers are trained to be loving, supportive, Christian friends. You do not have to walk this journey alone. Please contact Mary Katherine at 846-3404 or schnitzm@ stlukesumc.com
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Tuesdays, 1-3PM, Luke’s Lodge Prayerful volunteers who like to knit or crochet and love the fellowship of working together make prayer shawls for those needing to be wrapped in God’s healing love. New knitters welcome. Led by Helen Vriesman.
More Support Groups: • ALS Caregiver Support Group • ALS Patient Support Group • Brooke’s Place for Grieving Young People • Lupus Foundation Support Group • POCHA (parents of children with food allergies) • Resolve Peer Meeting (Infertility issues) Meeting details available at stlukesumc.com, or call the Main Office 317-846-3404 for more information.
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Outreach LOCAL Opportunities
Roland 4 Fondwa Raises Funds in Carmel Marathon
Join Pastor Jamalyn in the Carmel Marathon on April 18. Roland Hofer, member of St. Luke’s, is on a crusade for women’s health in Fondwa, Haiti. Help raise money for the Sister Carmelle Voltaire Women’s Clinic in Fondwa by lacing up your sneakers and running for a cause. Sign up for a marathon, half marathon, 8K or 5K and a portion of your registration fee will go back to the building fund for the clinic. Go to www.carmelmarathon.com and when they ask what charity you are running for chose “Roland4Fondwa”. Sign up today and then email Pastor Jamalyn at williamsonj@stlukesumc. com and let her know. We hope to have a tent to gather everyone as they finish.
Outreach of the Month - April
Outreach, Inc.
This faith-based nonprofit organization in Indianapolis reaches out to homeless young men and women (14-24) with the compassion of Jesus Christ. Their goal is to equip and empower at-risk young people to achieve stability and life transformation. To learn more, email outreach@stlukesumc.com.
Many Ways to Serve!
Volunteer for “Moving Team” Outreach Inc. is looking to create an “on call” moving team to help young people who are moving into a new home or need to quickly exit the place they are staying. This is a critical service to the young people of Outreach, as there is not usually a community around them who are willing to help. By offering a little bit of your time, you could make a huge impact in the life of a homeless young man or woman. What are you good at? Do you have a gift for organizing things? Do you like to cook? Do you prefer to get your hands dirty? Whatever your gift or skill, they probably have a place for you at the Outreach Drop-In Center. Donate to help cover costs for Outreach, Inc.’s 1. New Building 2. Operational Needs 3. Scholarship money for college bound students 4. Contribute from their Gift List at http://outreachindiana.org/helpor-give/wish-list The donation form through St. Luke’s is found at https:// webmasterstlukes.wufoo.com/forms/p5mlh7g0v6w1md/
Give a Kid a Chance. Tutor.
Fox Hill Elementary School Teachers are available and Butler University students train tutors on the curriculum. Contact Tom Lange, Fox Hill Relationship Manager at tom.c.lange@gmail.com; or complete the online volunteer form at www. stlukesumc.com/forms/z7p5q9/.
East 10th Street UMC Children & Youth Center
Do you work downtown and wish make a difference in child’s life? The East 10th United Methodist Children and Youth Center, which serves more than 120 children in its daycare and after-school programs, is looking for volunteers who can share an hour reading to preschool children or helping children in the after-school
Outreach program with their homework on afternoons, 4:30-5:30PM. Please email Cathy Neal at cbneal@gmail.com or call 317-417-9099 for more information. Or volunteer to help with Sunday Community Dinners. This is a free dinner offered to those in need in the E. 10th neighborhood, serving 80-100 people each week on Sunday evenings. St. Luke’s plans to help again April 26. Fourteen volunteers are needed (children 3rd grade and older are welcome, there must be one adult per child). The meal is comprised of the donations we receive. We serve it as well. To volunteer for any of these dates visit www.stlukesumc.com/outreach/local/.
Feed Everyone
Feed Everyone needs volunteers to take unsold food from area grocery stores to Indianapolis shelters on Tuesdays, Saturdays or Sundays. Contact: Lori Chambers lochambers@sbcglobal.net
National Opportunities
Take your Small Group to the Next Level with ‘See. Serve. Surrender.’
What would it be like if your small group (a class, or affinity group like singles, women’s circle or men’s gathering) challenged each other to learn first-hand about mission? That’s the idea behind the See/ Serve/Surrender program at St. Luke’s. Participants pay about $250 for a weekend adventure in another city, designed to demonstrate what God is doing beyond the Metro Indianapolis area. See/Serve/ Surrender invites participants to see each of the target cities in a new light; to serve with existing ministries in those locations not only to help their ministry, but also to gain new insight into mission practices applicable for St. Luke’s; and to surrender time, talent and treasure. Training, commissioning
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Outreach: Sharing Old Friends w/New Friends David Blaising-Wimmer hoped his community service project would have an impact on the lives of the children he would serve through St. Luke’s. What he didn’t anticipate was what an impact it would have on him. David showed up with his parents in late March for an event their Lenten Small Group had selected as their service project: an Easter Egg Hunt at Crooked Creek Apartments. “Of all of the things you’ve taken me to at church, I liked doing this the best,” he told his parents when they got home. Reflecting on the experience, he wrote: “The experience has made me ... realize that for all the evil in the world – and believe me, I heard that people in the apartments sometimes get robbed – that good people can help to ease their pain and help them to think the world is a better place.” Perhaps part of what made the experience so impactful for David was he made it personal. He had quite a collection of stuffed animals. They have names, and he can tell you where he got each one. He decided to donate these “old friends” as he calls them, as game prizes for the children. Judging by the looks on these faces, David’s “old friends” have good homes with his new friends.
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Outreach
Outreach of the Month - May
Donate to Support Preschool Scholarships “She began the school year shy and timid, often in tears as Mom would leave her with her teachers,” says Mollie Smith, preschool director. She was describing the first days of preschool for a little girl who attends the children’s daytime programming thanks to a scholarship from St. Luke’s. The program, which has taught her English as a second language (her family speaks Spanish in the home), has also taught her a thing or two about how much fun preschool can be. “As the school year continued, she has gained confidence, made new friends, and is now joining in play with her peers,” Mollie reports. “Her language is developing, both for communication and in understanding. This young child has gained in so many areas that provide her with the confidence and skills to be ready for Kindergarten. This was all made possible by the generous support of St. Luke’s Outreach program.” St. Luke’s supports the education of seven youngsters in the program, covering all but a modest sum that parents share in the cost. “It’s a matter of dignity at one level, that we encourage the parents to participate in the cost,” says Jamalyn Peigh Williamson, Pastor for Outreach. “They know they are a part of supporting their child’s well being. That’s important.” Donations to support this effort may be made through St. Luke’s. Email hachm@stlukesumc.com for more information.
and a follow-up session included. Plan now for your service learning adventure. Options include: Detroit, MI – Apr. 23-26 St. Louis, MO – June 4-7 Rosebud, SD – June 21-27 Nashville, TN – September Direct questions to Meghann Bowman at bowmanm@stlukesumc.com.
Women’s Partnership with Dearborn Covenant Church
April 25-27, Detroit, MI In partnership with Dearborn Covenant Church, women from St. Luke’s will SEE through the eyes of Muslim women in Dearborn, MI (a suburb of Detroit). SERVE alongside Dearborn Covenant Church in their various programs such as English (ENL) classes. SURRENDER our time, talents, and treasures, to learn about Middle Eastern culture and the Islamic faith. Email outreach@stlukesumc.com
Urban Mission Experience
June 4-7, St. Louis, MO, COST: $125 + Transportation In partnership with Urban Mission Experience we will SEE deep into the issue of urban poverty and social justice. SERVE alongside existing urban ministries in St. Louis. SURRENDER our time to learn more about the poverty cycle, and ways we can help.
What Will Your Kids Remember About Your 2015 Summer Vacation? June 21-27 enjoy a week of living, loving and learning with family members ranging from seven years old to great-grandparents. Experience native cooking, traditional powwows – as well as a little construction work around the reservation. Reserve a place for your family today with $125 deposit at www.stlukesumc.com/outreach. Direct questions to Wendy McNarney, wpmcnarney@hotmail.com, or Robb Eads, Robb@eadsfamily.us
Fellowship United Methodist Women (UMW) For details on any event or group, visit www.stlukesumc.com/getinvolved/umw/ UMW Semi-Annual Food Drive Help St. Luke’s UMW semi-annual food drive will once again take place during the month of April Food Pantries benefiting from our drive include First Baptist Food Pantry, Fletcher Place Community Center, Brightwood Community Center, and Vida Nueva Hispanic Ministries. Food Pantry items should be returned to church any day in April to the wooden bins in the west passage or narthex. Additional food lists can be picked up at the welcome center. For questions or if you would like to drive items to pantries, please contact Nancy Miller at 823-6051.
UMW Reading Group
Contact Jennifer Todd, jtoddosu@aol.com Monday, April 27 • 7-8:30PM • Parlor We will explore the call to ministry and the life of a minister when we discuss This Odd and Wondrous Calling: The Public and Private Life of Two Ministers by Lillian Daniel and Martin Copenhaver. Please plan to read the entire book for our conversation. Newcomers welcome. The UMW Reading Group will not be meeting in May - enjoy a happy Memorial Day! We’ll look forward to next month’s discussion of War Brides y Helen Bryan on Monday, June 22 from 7-8:30PM in the Parlor. For information, please contact Jennifer Todd at jtoddosu@aol.com.
Sarah Circle - All Women
Contact Esther Childress, estrchild@aol.com Monday, April 20 • 1PM • Parlor Amber Kriech shares how she created
a 2,000-book library for disadvantaged youth at an intercity daycare and afterschool program, and how she developed the “Eager-Reader” reading program. Her rolling libraries for after-school programs now number 20, with a focus on Title 1 schools with low reading levels. Guests are welcome. Monday, May 18 • 11:30AM • Parlor Pitch-in luncheon and social hour. Guests are welcome.
New Life Circle Single Women
Contact Nancy Hopper, nhopper@iupui. edu Tuesday, April 21 • 7PM • Spiritual Life Center “Meet & Greet” our UMW staff liaison, Rev. Kim King,Pastor of Congregational Care. New Life Circle welcomes single, divorced, and widowed women of all ages. Tuesday, May 19 • 7PM • Spiritual Life Center Annual Rebirthday Party - Discover “Your New Self in Christ: Integrating Heaven and Earth Inside, the Secret of Life!” with Rev. Dr. Mary Rudy, inspirational speaker and author. What is your True Self? Come experience your inner wealth rich and worthiness no matter what your circumstances. Enjoy an evening of celebration, complete with balloons, cake and ice cream – and your rebirthday wishes!
Eve Circle - Mothers with Children at Home
Contact: evecircle@yahoo.com Free childcare contact : evechildcare@ yahoo.com Tuesday, April 7 • 9:30 - 11:30AM • Great Hall - Spring Break play date; moms, bring the kids for some indoor play. Tuesday, April 21 • 9:30 - 11:30AM • Outdoor Labyrinth walk with Betty Brandt (outdoor labyrinth is located behind Luke’s Lodge on the NE corner of the St. Luke’s property)
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April/May 2015 Connections@St.Luke’s
Singles Toastmasters
Tuesdays, 7-8:30PM, N101/102 Improve communication and leadership skills. Call Cathy Baker at 317-334-7821.
Volleyball
Most Wednesdays & Fridays, 6:30PM, Great Hall See the schedule online or check the volleyball status line at 317721-3099 after 4:30PM. The cost to play is $2. For information, email slsvb@ecnsltng.com. You can also leave a message on the status line. Check the Singles calendar online at www. stlukesumc.com/ministries/ adult/singles
Elderberries Euchre
The monthly Elderberries Euchre games will be Saturday, May 16 and June 20 6:45PM in the Parlor. Bring a snack to share. For more information or to make reservations, contact Adra Wheeler at 317-846-3404.
Encore Thinking about retirement or have recently retired? Contact Jackie King, jk21@comcast.net or 317-658-4375 for info on fellowship events.
Sports Men’s Basketball
Friendly pick-up games (ages 16+) on Thursday nights from 7:30-9:30PM in Great Hall. Contact Chris Lemming at 317-595-8545 or email chris. lemming@anthem.com.
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April/May 2015 Connections@St.Luke’s
Fellowship/UMW Tuesday, May 5 • 9:30 - 11:30AM • Parlor - Enjoy a stress reliving yoga session with Marsha Pappas Tuesday, May 19 • 9:30 - 11:30AM • Parlor - Help us wrap up the year with a Year End Social.
Mary Magdalene Circle - All Women Contact: Jolynne Wilhoit wilhoitj@ businessfurnitureindy.com or Lori Chambers lochambers@sbcglobal.net Wednesday, April 8 • 6:30PM • Parlor - Learn about our new Crooked Creek Food Pantry from guest speaker Meghann Bowman. Bring baby formula, shopping bags (paper, plastic, and/or reusable welcome), and/or hygiene Items (toilet paper, feminine hygiene, diapers, soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, etc.) to donate Wednesday, May 13 • 6:30PM • Parlor - Guest speaker Tom Lange will provide information on volunteer activities at Fox Hill Elementary School and his organization called, Lion Catchers. Bring school supplies to donate.
Indiana UMW Spring Retreats ‘Be Still and Know’ & Silent Retreat
Details: online www.inumc.org/UMW ‘Be Still & Know’ – April 17-18 • Don Hall’s Guesthouse • 1313 W. Washington Center Rd. • Fort Wayne, IN – Speaker Corinne Boruff – Stucker Silent Retreat – May 15-17 • Sarto House • Evansville, IN
UMW Sewing Needs You: Make Kids’ Hats!
Contact & RSVP: umw@stlukesumc.com Friday, May 1 • 9AM to 1PM • Parlor Join United Methodist Women for a fun day of sewing hats for the Back-to-School Extravaganza. Together we will make 100+ hats that will be given out to Washington Township students in the fall. Bring your sewing machine, shears, and finger food or side dish to share. Drinks will be provided. Patterns and fleece will be supplied, but feel free to bring any extra fleece material you may have.
Volunteer to Sort/Sell/Set Up/ Tear Down: Volunteer in 2-hour shifts. Wed., April 15, through Sat., April 18 - jobs and hours vary. Sign up online. Youth volunteers are welcome for shifts after school. Time spent can count as community service hours. Lunch: Volunteer pitch-In lunch Thurs., April 16 11AM-Noon, Parlor. Drop Donations: April 15-16, 8AM-6PM • April 17, 8AM-Noon Shop: Shop the Members’ Sale Friday, April 17 from 6-8PM Public Sale Saturday, April 18th from 8AM-2PM.
Rummage Sale Sign up: http://tinyurl.com/qhdbqur Proceeds benefit Local and National Missions, St. Luke’s Children’s Ministries and our United Methodist Women. Unsold items are distributed to charities. Contact Betsy Amirhamzeh or Carly Roudebush with any questions at stlukesrummagesale@gmail.com
Indiana UMC Children’s Home Marks a Century of Care
‘Thank you for giving my daughter a chance… to become a productive adult.’
J
essica is a senior at IUPUI-Indianapolis studying to be a Convention Events manager. She hopes to graduate with a good GPA, find a position in Convention Management and start a family some day. But before she completed a treatment program in 2011 at the Indiana United Methodist Children’s Home (IUMCH) a few years ago, her future wasn’t quite as bright. "Thank goodness for the Home,” her mom says today. “Thank you for giving my daughter a chance to finish high school, go to college and become a productive adult." IUMCH has served more than 5,000 youth and their families since its founding in 1915. Over the years, the program has evolved to keep up with changing needs, with support from partners like St. Luke’s UMC. Through St. Luke's Outreach Partnership, the Home received a $10,000 grant in 2014. Funds were used to purchase smart boards for the new James E. Davis ongrounds school. Meanwhile, St. Luke's United Methodist Women continue to provide monthly pizza
parties, snacks and monetary donations. Members of St. Luke's serve on the Home's Board of Trustees and on the 100th Anniversary Committee. Other members have served as volunteers and members of the Auxiliary. On Sunday, May 17, the Home will partner with St. Luke's during the "Strawberries and Jazz" festivities, which will be held at St. Luke’s after each worship service. The Home's 100th Anniversary and valued partnership with St. Luke's will be celebrated. But the big celebration is planned for later in the summer. IUMCH celebrates its 100th Anniversary with the help of Merrill Lynch Bank of America Corp. - The Searles Akers Group. A “100th Anniversary Gala” is set for Thursday, Aug. 20, 2015 at Lucas Estate in Carmel. Grammy award winning artist Sandi Patty will perform and a heartwarming film featuring some of the Home's former residents will be premiered. Lebanon native, Julia Moffitt, will serve as Mistress of Ceremonies. Julia is well known in central Indiana as an anchor and reporter for WTHR-Channel 13.
IUMCH has served more than 5,000 youth and their families since its founding in 1915.
Marking 100 years offers the opportunity to celebrate the past, but also to look ahead, according to event planners. A bold new master plan designed to accommodate learning in the 21st Century is underway now. The new James E. Davis School will provide the latest technology, as well as the needed space for the student population. Completion of the project is scheduled to coincide with the anniversary. Jessica’s mom will tell you that she’s grateful the Home was around when her family was in crisis and her daughter needed help. For more information or to contribute to this ministry, contact Suzanne Killen, Director of Development at 765-482-5900, or e-mail suzannek@iumch.org.
On Sunday, May 17, the Home will celebrate with St. Luke’s during the ‘Strawberries and Jazz’ festivities, which will be held at St. Luke’s after each worship service. The Home’s 100th Anniversary and valued partnership with St. Luke’s will be lifted up.
Lunch (on us) with the Pastors Bring the whole family for lunch to hear Pastor Rob Fuquay share the vision of St. Luke’s. Sunday, April 19 • 12:15-1:30PM • Fellowship Hall/ Parlor – Register for lunch online www. stlukesumc.com. Search “Lunch with the Pastors.”
Exploring Membership Class
Let Us Help You Find Your Next Steps
Welcome to St. Luke’s Welcome to St. Luke’s United Methodist Church! We are so glad you are here. As you get to know this faith community, we hope you will discover that we are an open and welcoming body of believers, that lives out our mission: “to seek, celebrate, live and share the love of God for all creation.” We strive to be the kind of community that wants to know what God cares about, so we can learn to care about it, too; a community that does the right thing even when it’s hard; a community that smooths the path for those who are curious about how to have a strong and life-giving relationship with a loving God. We strive to be the kind of faith community that reflects the light of Christ to the world around us. Maybe this sounds like the kind of faith community you have been looking for – but you really need to know more about us. We understand. That’s why we have developed some opportunities to help you take next steps with us. These opportunities help you learn more about us and our relationship with God, even as you try to strengthen your own relationship with God. If you have young people in your family, we can introduce you to age-appropriate programming that’s available for them. We have a robust children’s, youth and young adult ministry at St. Luke’s. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to be in touch with Terri Coe, Director of Adult Ministries, Coet@stlukesumc.com or (317) 846.3404, ext. 308.
Pastor Rob Fuquay and other clergy introduce the St. Luke’s mission to, “seek, celebrate, serve and share the love of God for all creation.” Learn what membership at St. Luke’s means. Light lunch is provided. Sunday, May 3 • Noon – 3PM • Luke’s Lodge – Register online at www.stlukesumc.com. Search “Membership Class.”
Get Acquainted with the United Methodist Church Join Terri Coe and Dr, Marion Miller to gain an overview of our history, beliefs, key leaders and so much more. Just bring yourself - and any questions. Wednesdays, April 8-29 • 6:30 - 8PM • E107-109.
To register Go to www.stlukesumc.com and type the event name in the search box on the top right. Childcare is available for many of these opportunities.