St. Luke's Magazine Vol 1 No 2 by St. Luke's United Methodist Church

Celebrate

Summer 2016, Vol. 1 No. 2

A Magazine by St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s United Methodist Church

Pull up a chair and celebrate summer with St. Luke's

Contents

Features 8

A Legacy of Leadership Honoring a lifetime of service

Bridging the Generational Divide

Journey to the Heart of Cuba

Forming a family of faith.

Two churches, one heart for Christ

Celebrations 17

Why I’m a St. Luker Openess, inclusiveness, acceptance

It's Not St. Luke's Without “U”

Building for Kingdom Builders

Still loving and serving at 98 years old

St. Luke's breaks ground on Founder's Hall

4 11

Behind the Scenes

Music Notes

Connecting your passion with a place to serve

A kids musical adventure through time

Sports and Recreation Batting for St. Luke's since 1988

Scouting Out a Place to Belong Friendships forged, leadership learned

I Can Change Anything Class is in session at 33rd St. Jail

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Chair Time Pull up a chair for some front porch parables

Stewardship Dig deeper with upcoming studies

Creative Design, Carrie Lepore Volunteer Editor, Sarah Ristorcelli Editor, Dawn Fleming

A Post from the Pastor Dear Friends, Since I was little I have loved when someone said to me “Pull up a chair.” It meant I was going to be able to have some one-on-one time with someone. Sometimes it was when my grandma Helen would pull up a chair so I could reach the counter and cook with her. When I was around six or seven years old hanging around the church office during the summer, my favorite pastor, Dr. Roughton, would invite me to pull up a chair next to his big desk and help him write notes. He would write notes to our older members and I would color a picture on the back. Whatever the invitation of activity, it always meant I was going to have a special conversation with the person. They would ask questions and listen to my stories, or they would share stories of their life and in that moment, I would feel special. I don’t think we spend enough time “pulling up a chair” with people anymore. I know people will tell me they can have great conversations over text and email, but there is something invaluable about pulling up a chair next to someone. It’s about engaging with one another, being able to look one another in the eyes and share our stories of life with each other. I believe Jesus had a “pull up a chair” kind of ministry. Sure, chairs weren’t really a part of the culture, but I get a sense as I read about his dinner parties, or his interactions with people, that Jesus created those same personal moments where people felt heard, or learned something new from him, and walked away feeling different, even special. This magazine is all about the ways people have created those holy moments. Sharing life with one another over conversations, studies, serving next to one another and learning to understand what Paul wrote about in 2 Corinthians 5 “we regard no one from a human point of view” but instead seeing one another through the eyes of Christ. How different would things be if we would take the time to “pull up our chairs” with one another and if we took the time to see one another through the eyes of God? May this edition of “Celebrate” inspire you to invite someone to “pull up a chair” and share life together. And just know, like in Dr. Roughton’s office, my chairs are always open! Grace and Peace,

Jenn. The Rev. Jennifer Stiles Williams, Lead Pastor

Our Purpose: Building the Kingdom By Building Disciples Our Vision: That the believers of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church will reach as many people as possible in Central Florida introducing them to eternal life in Jesus Christ. Together, we commit to worship, connect, and grow as disciples, to serve in building the Kingdom of God. Our Core Values: At our center is the love of Jesus Christ. We value Christ-centered: Acceptance: We recognize that Christ’s love has no boundaries. Hospitality: We welcome all to share Christ’s love through help, hope, and healing. Community: We claim a sacred place where Christ’s love unites all to support and care for others while nurturing a personal relationship with God. Discipleship: We believe we are called to be living representatives of Jesus Christ and bring others to know God’s mercy, justice, grace, and love. Service: We respond to Christ’s love and God’s call, by sharing our time, talents, tithes, spiritual gifts, and resources.

Why I'm a St. Luker By Nancy Goodwin Left to right: Nancy Goodwin, Ezgiharia Gebremichael, Susan Warren

Learn more about St. Luke’s We open our doors to all so everyone can find a place to belong and always feel welcome. Are you interested in learning more about the St. Luke’s family? Check out St. Luke’s online at st.lukes. org where you will find an “I’m New!” section just for first time guests. You can see what to expect when you visit St. Luke’s and even plan your first trip to campus. Church services are just one of the many opportunities to connect with St. Luke’s. For information about sports, music, dance, theater, Bible study, or just social groups based on hobbies, lifestage, or neighborhood email connect@st.lukes.org or call 407.876.4991 ext. *262.

Connect with St. Luke's at stlukesorlando!

2 | Summer 2016

My husband and I joined St. Luke’s back in the mid 90s after moving into the area with our two young sons. I have always loved St. Luke’s message of helping others and getting out into the community as servants. Too many big churches and organized religions in general seem to teach fear, judgment, and isolation instead of being open and welcoming to all. St. Luke’s is different from most big churches, and the church practices what it preaches. I love the many community outreach programs St. Luke’s supports. I have been involved in the Educational IMPACT program and more recently the Circles program (part of St. Luke’s Community Transformation initiative in East Winter Garden), two programs that are making a huge difference to people in our community. I love St. Luke’s and continue to support its ministries since St. Luke’s promotes openness, inclusiveness, and acceptance of all people.

M b s a a m m t c h p N e I b

Methodists believe we should put faith It's Not ST. LUKE'S Without â&#x20AC;&#x153;Uâ&#x20AC;? and love into action, and in my life-long membership in the Methodist church, I have tried to practice this. Now at ninetyeight years old, I still enjoy being involved, By Lucille Ellson, St. Luker since 1999

Why you are never too old to love and serve.

Lucille Ellson teaching students from the Iowa Braille school.

Methodists believe we should put faith and love into action, and in my life-long membership in the Methodist church, I have tried to practice this. Now at ninety-eight years old, I still enjoy being involved, but I now serve in the church differently than I did in my younger years. For instance, my husband Floyd and I transported students from the Iowa Braille School to the Methodist church on Sunday mornings for Sunday School and church. Now I belong to a Faith Circle where we work on mission projects such as writing letters to service men and making picture scrapbooks for the Russell Home. Recently I presented a program for St. Luke's seniors on my fourteen years of teaching at The Iowa Braille School. I enjoyed opening my home for a meeting about forming a Williamsburg Cluster Group as well. These social groups based on interest, life stage, or neighborhood are a lot of fun. Frequently I encourage others by making phone calls and sending cards to friends and family needing a lift. I hope my story encourages others to remember that we are never too old to love and serve.

Learn how you can give back to the community. View volunteer opportunities at st.lukes.org/ serve.

st.lukes.org | 3

Check out a Cluster Group this Summer A Cluster Group is made up of 20 or more people who have a common interest, life stage or neighborhood. These social groups gather once a month and create an accepting Christ-like community where everyone is cared for and everyone gets connected. New Cluster Groups are starting soon! See what a few of St. Luke's Cluster Groups have to say about getting connected!

West Windermere/Keene’s Pointe

Our group has helped us get to know more people by introducing us to St. Luke's members we wouldn't have otherwise met. Dave & Nicole, West Windermere/Keene’s Pointe

Bowling Cluster Group

Fellowship and fun in a friendly atmosphere. I've found "friends to cheer for my strikes/spares and laugh with me when I throw gutter balls!" Bowling Cluster Group member

Motorcycle Cluster Group

Being part of the group has given me the opportunity to fellowship with people from across our church. We have members from all service types and times and a multitude of ministries. We offer support and prayer for each other and share information about St. Luke’s and its ministries. John, Motorcycle Cluster Group 4 | Summer 2016

West Orange Cluster Group

I can't imagine joining a church the size of St. Luke’s and not taking advantage of the opportunities available to meet other St. Lukers in an informal, fun, inclusive atmosphere simply to meet, fellowship, share, learn, support and encourage each other...Fabulous way to make inroads to develop lasting relationships... Linda, West Orange Cluster Group

Open Arms LGBTQA

Open Arms has become more than just a fun group of friends. We are family. We worship together; we eat together (often lol); we sit with each other in the hospital; we laugh together (a lot). We share each other's lives and the journeys we have been on to find unconditional love and acceptance in the world and in a church. Thankfully St. Luke's has given us that place to experience all of the above and has given me this genuine family of faith! Bradley, Open Arms Cluster Group

Travel

Everyone has a story to share about different experiences throughout the world. We discuss travel in the USA and all around the world. We recently had our second event, a nice dinner at EPCOT. We are so lucky to have Walt Disney World as a great destination! In the future, maybe we can do more travels together. It really has been a good time! Edward, Travel Cluster Group

Friends on Wheels

This group is awesome, and I look forward to the monthly gatherings! This group fulfills me both physically and spiritually. All levels of cyclists and types of non powered wheeling are welcomed. As 1 Corinthian states that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit so we must honor God by being good stewards of it. The friendships I've made and the fellowship after each ride is a huge bonus! Nina, Friends on Wheels Cluster Group

Mom Connection

This group has been a blessing for my family. Having the support and help of other moms is really encouraging. We are so grateful to be a part of this amazing group. Kathy, Mom Connection Cluster Group

Adult Singles (40+)

This group has been inspirational, encouraging, and uplifting. They have helped me find new purpose through Bible study, dinners, entertainment, exercise and all kinds of activities. Most importantly, they have offered me friendship and a new beginning. Cris, Adult Singles Cluster Group Ready to join a Cluster Group at St. Luke's? Visit st.lukes.org/clustergroups for a full list of groups and meetings. Email connect@st.lukes.org or call 407.876.4991 ext. *262 with questions. st.lukes.org | 5

Get to Know Your St. Luke's Neighbors Meet your neighbors who attend St. Luke's and forge friendships rooted in acceptance, hospitality, and community. On Sunday, July 17 at 3:00 p.m., St. Lukers will host an “iFound Four” ice cream social in neighborhoods across Orlando. These parties are a chance to create a network of St. Luke’s friends close to home for socializing and caring for one another during times of celebration or need. Attend an event and challenge yourself to meet four new people. Parties are planned in YOUR neighborhood!

RSVP to meet your neighbors by visiting st.lukes.org/summer.

Top 5 Tips for Getting to Know Your Neighbors Do you know who your neighbors are? Summer is an awesome time to connect with people who live near you. Check out these 5 tips on how to get to know your neighbors. 1. Have a garage sale 2. Create a Facebook page for your neighborhood 3. Sit around a fire pit sharing s'mores 4. Take a walk in the evening, to meet the dogs and dog owners in your neighborhood! 5. Pitch a tailgate tent at the end of your driveway. Invite everyone to share a snack and a drink.

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Life is busy. We rush in and rush out. In this fastpaced world, we miss the relationships we can make with a neighbor who has that cup of sugar you need, or motivates you to walk in the morning, or is there for you in times of illness or celebration. There may be a best friend right around the corner from you. Reach out in love and see what is behind door number 1 (door number 2, or door number 3)!

Upcoming Events To register or RSVP for events below visit st.lukes.org/summer.

June 20-24 • Vacation Bible School Block Party: Where the party starts with God’s love! (Preschool - Rising 6th grade) (limited availability) • Momentum (Food and Fellowship) for youth after VBS from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

June 27–July 1 Youth Week - Youth invited to a week of fellowship, fun, and missions!

July 11-July 15 • God’s Big Back Yard Camp (Ages 3-5)

June 17

July 25-29 • Neighborhood Camp (Kindergarten - Rising 6th grade)

Family Movie Night in the Attic of Building C at 6:30 p.m.

August 1-5

July 11 - July 15

July 17

Warren Willis Camp for St. Luke’s older elementary children and middle and high school students

Meet your Neighbors! Attend an "iFound Four" party. In neighborhoods across Orange County, St. Lukers will get to know one another over ice cream. To sign up as a Front Porch Host visit st.lukes.org/summer.

• Neighborhood Camp (Kindergarten - Rising 6th grade)

July 6 St. Luke's Youth head out to the ESCAPE room. Register at st.lukes.org/youth.

July 18 Family Game Night and Open Gym from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

July 23

July 20

July 22

Messy Olympics: Youth, get in the spirit of competition of the Olympics with some messy games! More details at st.lukes.org/youth.

Indoor Movie Night in the Attic of Building C at 6:30 p.m.

July 25-29

August 5

August 12-14 and 18-21

High School Mission Trip to Branches in Florida City

Bioluminescent Night Kayak Tour in Merritt Island for families

St. Luke’s Summer Musical Production of Big River Visit st.lukes.org/bigriver for times and ticket info.

August 21

September 30

October 14

October 28-30

Connection Lunch at 12:15 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall

Family Open Gym/ Game Night from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

St. Luke's Annual Family Campout

Fast Track Retreat at Warren Willis United Methodist Camp

United Methodist Women's Great Exchange and potluck in the Attic of Building C

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A Legacy of Leadership By Kelly Smith, St. Luke's Executive Director of Operations

Celebrating Pastor David Stephens’ 28 years of ministry at St. Luke’s.

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“Our friendship began when Art and I were serving directly with Pastor David on the Church Growth Committee in the late 1980s. We started the new member luncheons together, and they were always so much fun! -Karen Brown (St. Luker since 1988)

What contributes to the growth of a church? In the case of St. Luke’s, much of that growth is based on relationships and personal connections and many have been made by Pastor David Stephens. Pastor David began his career at St. Luke’s in 1988 as the pastor in charge of church growth. It was his responsibility to reach out to St. Luke’s visitors on a weekly basis. Because of the intentional work of Pastor David and his team, many current members who were “church shopping” found a home at St. Luke’s and continue to feel the connection and welcoming atmosphere on the church campus. When Pastor David joined the staff, membership was approximately 1,200. Now, almost 30 years later, it is approximately 4,500. It must have had something to do with all that banana bread being delivered! This summer Pastor David transitioned into his new role as St. Luke’s part-time Visitation Pastor. This transition allows him to spend more time with family while staying closely connected to St. Luke’s. Looking back on his 28 years of ministry reveals so much about his heart for helping people strengthen their relationships with God. Pastor David has always had a strong commitment to congregational care. He is often visiting church members, their extended family members, and St. Luke’s guests who are hospitalized, in assisted living facilities, or in hospice care. As the church grew this became an impossible task for just one person so Pastor David worked with the St. Luke’s Stephen Ministry program to help equip laity volunteers to make visits to meet this depth of care. Stephen Ministers go through an intensive 50-hour training process to prepare them on how to listen when people are in need of a friend or caring ear. Stephen Ministers are not counselors, but they are really good listeners who can help a person in certain situations talk through the problem and find peace and awareness. Pastor David has done some wonderful work with the community’s special needs population. With his encouragement and support the laity team worked with Nathaniel’s Hope and became a site for Buddy Break, a community ministry offering care to those with special

needs. This allows caregivers much needed time for themselves knowing that their child is in a safe and fun environment. Trained volunteers oversee the children and offer fun and engaging activities for them. Pastor David also has a heart for recreation. You can find him almost every day either swimming the lake at Lucky’s at Lake Marsha Cane, running through Windermere and Bay Hill, or biking with a group of St. Lukers. This is another area where Pastor David continues to exude the DNA of St. Luke’s by being in relationship with so many people with a variety of interests. Pastor David was helpful in getting the St. Luke’s sports ministry up and running. He not only helped with the organization of Upward Basketball (now known as St. Luke’s Sports) but he also coached several of the teams. He enjoyed seeing the children flourish as they learned the skills of basketball, understood sportsmanship and team play, and received their different stars and wristbands for different attributes of a Christian spirit in the midst of a basketball game. He also organized open basketball time in the mornings, and in earlier days could be found dribbling down the court for the 3 pointer. This open group still plays in the morning, but Pastor David has traded in his morning basketball shoes for his running shoes. On May 21, St. Luke’s honored Pastor David by holding the inaugural Pastor David Stephens 5K walk/run. Over 200 people participated in the race that was held in Windermere. St. Luke’s hopes to make this an annual opportunity to celebrate Pastor David’s contributions to the church and gather in the spirit of fresh air and fellowship. In all three traditional worship services on May 22, Pastor David delivered a moving sermon on leaving a legacy. At a reception following the services, hundreds of St. Lukers showed their appreciation for the years of service the Stephens family gave to St. Luke’s and the countless ways they transformed lives.

“On long runs, we have been part of the test audience for David’s sermon jokes. Over post-run snacks, we have learned a lot from David about how the church works, biblical history, and our relationship with God. David even convinced me to be a wiseman in the Christmas pageant, which I wouldn’t do for just anybody.” -Bill Winslow (St. Luker since 1999) st.lukes.org | 9

Building for Kingdom Builders By St. Luke's Building Committee

Exciting things are happening around St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. With the future looking bright and St. Luke’s poised for growth, the congregation has committed to fund campus renovations and a new venue for worship services, theatrical productions, special events, and other community needs. Since 1997 the congregation has been dreaming about a new worship space for contemporary worship services. Currently these services are held in the Colman Memorial Gymnasium requiring setup each Friday and Saturday, and tear down on Sunday. This process is labor intensive and takes the gymnasium out of use each weekend. The new space will allow for use of the gymnasium for additional family and recreational ministries that connect the church and the community. On May 15, 2016 St. Luke’s broke ground on the new building known as Founder’s Hall and a special area in the venue honoring St. Luke’s long-time former lead pastor Dr. Bill Barnes. It was a great time of celebration as each worship service prayed over the space and then enjoyed a time of fellowship with refreshments provided by contractor Aagaar-Juergensen, LLC.

See exciting updates on St. Luke’s campus renovations and building progress at st.lukes.org/commit.

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In addition, St. Luke’s is also working on campus optimization. Plans are being finalized for renovations to the church’s original 1980s sanctuary (now known as Fellowship Hall). This space will be transformed into the new Youth Center and house ministries for middle and high school students and will include space for smaller meeting rooms or large gatherings. There will also be a game room, renovated kitchen, and new office space. St. Luke’s Music Ministries will also benefit as these programs will begin to occupy additional classroom space in Building B to accommodate their growing program. The children’s playground at the back of St. Luke’s Child Development Center (CDC) is being relocated to allow room for the new building. The playground will be rebuilt after the exterior of the new building is complete. The CDC will utilize the Coleman Memorial Gymnasium as the play area during this time, a solution that has been approved by the Department of Children and Families, the licensing agency for the center. St. Luke’s Building Committee is also working on audio/ visual upgrades in the sanctuary, United Methodist Women’s storage facilities, and room enlargements on the second floor of Building B. All of these renovations will assist in continuing St. Luke’s “not to be missed” worship services, United Methodist Women sponsored events that raise funds for missions, and Children’s Ministries that facilitate growth and spiritual formation for families.

Events Calendar by Vince Lepore, Manager of Technical Services

Behind the Scenes by Jose Jordan, St. Luker since 2012

I came across St. Luke’s in 2012 through some friends who spoke pretty highly of Pastor Jennifer Stiles Williams. This came at a very important crossroads in my life when church, to me, had begun to feel unaccepting, patronizing, and disillusioning. I began attending worship at St. Luke’s and became familiar with the St. Luke’s community and the church’s welcoming nature. After a year of visiting at St. Luke’s, I decided to move on from my previous church, in search of a community where I could grow and be accepted as I am, and where I could use my skills and gifts. I wanted to be an active part of a church family. I wanted to feel at home. Within 3 years, I accomplished more in my spiritual growth than I had over the previous 10 years of discipleship. In this short time I’ve plugged into a weekly study group; helped

lead the Open Arms LGBTQA Cluster Group; worked on St. Luke’s summer musical stage sets, including Big Fish and Music Man….and the list goes on. I have found a family that accepts me and puts me to work, and I feel valued and welcomed every week. As I continue serving at St. Luke’s, I look forward to putting my professional skills as an Interior Designer to work, alongside the Commit Campaign and as a part of the Board of Trustees. I’ve enjoyed working on the new Founder’s Hall and Barnes Learning Center, and collaborating on the Fellowship Hall renovation to create a welcoming and lively space for our youth. It is an honor and a pleasure to be a part of this wonderful family and everything that is happening. We are big and we are growing, but we are a close family and it’s good to be home.

For help finding ways to connect your passion with a place to serve email serve@st.lukes.org or call 407.876.4991 ext. *239.

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Music Notes

by John R. Mason, III, St. Luke's Creative Director of Traditional Music Earlier this spring the congregation and community of St. Luke’s were musically transported in time with the Children’s Choir production of “Back to the Cross.” Sofia Wharton played the role of “Morgan,” a new girl hoping to find her place in the group. Sophia’s parents, David & Atlethea Wharton, had this to say about their daughter’s experience: Our daughter’s participation in the St. Luke’s Children’s Choir and musicals has been one of the best activities for her development that our family has experienced. She is normally a quiet, shy, and somewhat reserved child but her time spent in these programs has allowed her to become much more engaged and social. As her parents we have seen her self-confidence blossom. Being active in the children’s choir has really given her a voice in more ways than just singing. She has expressed many times that singing makes her happy and she enjoys spending time with her friends. She was so excited to be a part of the Children’s Musical this year; it was her first time auditioning for a principal role and we are thankful for the supportive positive environment at St. Luke’s. She has learned about being committed to the production and to her fellow cast mates. We really look forward to Wednesdays at St. Luke’s and all of the THRIVE programs. In addition to choir rehearsal, we also enjoy the Wednesday night dinners. The meals together have become more than just family time they have become community time. St. Luke’s has been a true savior for our family.

To learn more about St. Luke’s music and theater ministries for children, youth, and adults visit st.lukes.org/music. 12 | Summer 2016

St. Luke’s Presents

August 12-14 and 18-21 Tickets on sale beginning July 3 at st.lukes.org/bigriver Four years ago, St. Luke’s began the process of choosing a summer theater show that would live into the church’s core values, engage the community, and create dialogue and discussion for the growth of the congregation. The church leadership team initially thought about the show Big River, based on the Mark Twain classic story of Huckleberry Finn. The team ultimately chose Hairspray as St. Luke’s inaugural summer theater production but as 2016 got off to a start, it felt like the right time for this classic story to be told. When asked about this year’s choice of musicals, Lead Pastor, Jennifer Stiles Williams said, “I think this show will delight all ages and be a fresh breeze on a hot summer day, as we watch true friendship unfold.” Big River follows the story of a vulnerable young boy who has a difficult relationship with his father but finds friendship and community with a runaway slave. Both characters are looking for freedom and community as they seek to be valued by society. Theirs is a journey of learning to truly hear someone’s story and stand in the gap for another person.

The story of Big River connects to St. Luke’s summer sermon series, “Pull Up a Chair: Front Porch Parables.” Mark Twain spins a tale like no other, however his own personal journey was one of learning to understand the history of his upbringing and the plight of others. This summer St. Luke’s will intentionally strive to create sacred space on the “front porch” for all to “pull up a chair” and listen to each other’s stories. This sermon series, along with the musical production of Big River, will be the catalyst that moves the St. Luke’s congregation through the household of faith this fall. Visit St. Luke’s for opportunities to sit with one of your neighbors, free from the troubles of our nation and community. Talk quietly and find communion with old friends and new ones, free from the notions of the world. Big River will kick off exciting new fall opportunities and listening moments as St. Luke’s seeks to find peace as a community of faith.

To view show dates and times and to purchase tickets to Big River visit st.lukes.org/bigriver. All tickets are $12 and are reserved seats. st.lukes.org | 13

th son Chris Smith

wi Dave Smith, left,

(right)

ATION E R C E R D N A SPORTS since 1988 . Luker

By Dave Smith, St

In 1988 our family moved to the Gotha area and began searching for a church family. We visited St. Luke’s a few times, and then one Sunday afternoon Pastor David Stephens arrived at our door step with a loaf of banana bread as a gift from the church. We talked for a few moments and he asked if we had any questions about St. Luke’s. For me the only question was “Do you have a softball team?” This was important because I connect with people through sports activities. Well, there was a softball team so we joined the church. In those early days the games were played on Saturday nights and it was

a family outing for all who were on the team. There were kids running all over the place and a lot of new people to get to know. Through these new friends we began to get connected to St. Luke's. It did not take long before I was co-chair of the Family Ministry area. This ministry group planned family outings (both church family and biological family) such as camping, going to spring training baseball games, bowling, etc. We connected with some families who are now friends for life. We joined a covenant group with five other couples when our kids were just six and eight years old. This group of St. Lukers is truly our extended

Visit st.lukes.org/sports for details about sports and recreation programs for children, youth, and adults.

14 | Summer 2016

family. We have studied together, grown together, been through life experiences together, and had some really fun vacations together. Our kids formed a special bond with not only the adults of our covenant group but also with the other children. When my son went through confirmation with two of the other boys from our covenant group three of the dads (myself included) became their confirmation mentors. This was a very impactful event not only in our relationship with these kids but also with each of us as mentors as we deepened our spiritual formation. All of the covenant group kids have stayed connected through the years and now we are attending their weddings and celebrating the birth of their babies. Other activities I have been connected with include playing in the inaugural basketball game when the Coleman Memorial Gymnasium was opened back in 1997 and helping to organize and implement Upward Basketball, which is now St. Luke's Sports where I also coached my children. I share this with you not to show what I have done but to show you that stepping out and doing something you enjoy (for me playing softball) can lead to so many other ways to connect with the life of St. Luke's and St. Lukers. For me, things have come full circle. I am still playing softball after almost 30 years, and this season I am playing with my son, Chris Smith, who was just a year old when our journey at St. Luke's began. He now serves on the St. Luke's staff as the Director of Family and Recreational Ministries. I feel so blessed by all I have experienced at St. Luke's and am so grateful for the connections I have made...sure am glad they had a softball team back in 1988.

Scouting Out a Place to Belong White water. Zip lining. Camping. Friendships forged, leadership skills learned.

Macayla's Story, Venture Crew 6 Venture crew 6 has been an important part of my life for the last few years, allowing me to experience new things and become a stronger leader. When I first joined in 2013, I was at a crossroads with my friends who had all found their groups, and by joining this organization I found the path I wanted to take. I wasn’t a dancer, I wasn’t an ROTC prospect, and I wasn’t an athlete. I found that I was a scout. Venture Crew is a co-ed organization. It was found that young men were aging out of their troops but still wanted and needed a program specific to their interests and abilities. There was also a growing demand for a program that would include young women who wanted adventure as well as leadership training. Venturing is for young people age fourteen to twenty-one, with seventeen being our crew’s average age. Venturing is currently the

fastest growing program in the Boy Scouts of America. The National Association of United Methodist Scouters (NAUMS) was formed in 1986 to provide resources for Scouting and CivicYouth-Serving Ministry. It is associated with the General Commission on United Methodist Men. Since joining, I have improved my leadership skills since Venturing requires youth members to take center stage in its organization, planning activities and meetings. If we want to have an activity, we don’t rely on our adult leaders to step in and plan something, we go out in search of something our peers would enjoy doing. Thanks to this self-reliance, we have improved our communication skills and in turn our self-confidence. On average, we have one activity a month, ranging from bowling to zip lining to whitewater rafting. We are working with The Dive Place in Stoneybrook to get our members st.lukes.org | 15

PADI certified. These activities do carry a cost. We have been raising money for our activities through popcorn sales, camp cards, and by serving dinners at St. Luke’s. Since joining I have also made some of my closest friends, who I never would have met if I hadn’t joined scouts. Crew also gives us built in times to hang out around our busy schedules, often during our many community service projects, including Scouting for Food and Clean the World. I’m so glad I discovered Venturing! These last few years I have made some of my closest friends, gone on adventures I would not have been able to go on otherwise, and have had so many opportunities to give back to our community.

Matthew's Story Hi, I’m Matthew; I'm 12 years old and currently working on my star rank. We go on campouts and during summer camp we get to do a variety of activities, such as bicycling, swimming, archery, shooting, hiking and fishing. The ranks are really quite simple. There is a list of requirements for you to learn and do. Once you finish, you ask to have a Scoutmaster Conference followed by a Board of Review. The 7 ranks go from Scout to Eagle, with requirements ranging from tying a bowline knot to doing service projects. Merit badges also kind of flow the same way and include the fun activities above and many more plus things like citizenship, law, dentistry, veterinary medicine, welding and almost anything you can think of. You pick 1 of the 130 merit badges that interest you and begin meeting with a Merit Badge Counselor. The counselor helps you through the requirements and makes sure you know the subject. The counselor will then sign it and you give it to the advancement team and bam, it’s done. Over all you can see advancing in anything from merit badges to ranks is really fun and quite simple if you put your time and mind to it. I enjoy Scouting; it builds self-confidence, leadership and lets me experience many things I would never have tried.

Scout Law A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. For more information about the Boy Scouts of America visit st.lukes.org/connect.

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Bridging the Generational Divide

By Dawn Fleming, St. Luke's Executive Director of Marketing and Connect Ministries

How three generations of strangers came together as a family of faith.

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By all accounts it was an atypical sight at the lake that day. March weather in Florida was ripe for a day on the lake. Anyone out for a boat ride on Windermere’s Lake Down would have witnessed the baptism just off the white washed dock at the home of Jeff and Angie Winn, but that wasn’t what made this scene unique. The Winn’s had opened their backyard oasis to a small band of faithful disciples gathered at the water’s edge. Those present, now connected by the bonds of faith, were mere strangers not long ago. The group spanned at least three generations and brought with them a plethora of diverse life experiences.

Tom and Joyce In 1995 Tom Runnels and Joyce Anderson were house hunting in west Orange County when they asked their real estate agent if there was a Methodist church in the area. “Our first Sunday at St. Luke’s was Mother’s Day, 1995 - just four days after arriving [in Orlando]. Tom and Joyce, both retired educators now in their 60's, were both active in their faith communities as children. Joyce stopped going to church at college age because of the negative approach she witnessed. For Joyce, being disconnected from a church home for so many years resulted in, “having no real sense of direction or meaning to life.” “I was a workaholic,” she confessed. In 1996 while looking for a Sunday school class to join, they found New Directions, a class at St. Luke’s made up of mostly Baby Boomers (born in 1946-1964) and those in the Silent Generation (born in 1945 or early). Anderson comments that, “We were looking for a small group where we fit in and where we could learn about God in a variety of ways with individuals who had that same commitment to grow spiritually. For us, it was vital that we be with ‘real’ people who were willing to share their struggles that come while maturing as Christians.”

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Ray and Betty Ray and Betty Wilson, joined St. Luke’s in 1996. The former sales manager and realtor are now in their 80’s are longtime Methodists. Ray was the only child in his middle class Des Moines, Iowa family. He attended church with his parents until entering the marines after college graduation. Betty's family of eight was close to dirt poor and very near isolated, living in Mississippi and Texas. She says, “daddy taught me very young, after someone had hurt my feelings at school, that I was just as good as any other person on earth - but no better than.” From high school on, Betty’s family rarely missed a Sunday of church. She learned all the old hymns, which she says come to mind often these days. Betty’s philosophy is that “life is so complex, we need constant reminders that God is in charge and since good is stronger than evil everything will be just fine ultimately.” Ray and Betty were volunteering with Habitat for Humanity when Joyce Anderson invited them to check out the New Directions Bible study. Betty said, “We knew all the habitat workers in the class already. We witnessed right away that everyone there was putting action to their faith as well as digging deeper into improving their understanding of who God is and how we relate to him.

Marcelo and Joanna “My dad always had a Bible out, but church was not part of the conversation,” said Marcelo Hernandez. He and his wife Joanna, both in their 20’s, visited St. Luke’s as first time guests in October of 2015. They quickly became regular worshippers and on the recommendation of Pastor Jenn, they dropped in to the New Directions Bible study one Sunday in early 2016. “Maybe it’s the holy environment at St. Luke’s; people have that natural inclination to be receiving,” said Marcelo. Joyce Anderson recalls the first day the Hernandez family visited the study. “We met Marcelo and Joanna when they just ‘showed up’ one day in class. We were sure they had been misdirected…three or four of us may still be in our 50’s, with the rest of us in our 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s, so we noticed Marcelo and Joanna immediately! Marcelo explained that Pastor Jenn had recommended they try the class and we thought it was great – (we) told them that they brought our average age down a notch!”

A Family in Faith When asked how the Bible Study group felt about having a younger couple join, Joyce Anderson exclaimed, “Oh, my gosh! We couldn’t believe that they would hang with our group! It was a compliment.” “We were surprised, but pleasantly so,” said Betty Wilson. “When they told us pastor Jenn had sent them, we knew right away that she had again demonstrated her wisdom, as communication between generations brings understanding and mutual respect. These two are very brave as they are so outnumbered.” Anderson went on to say, “Their youth and vibrancy invigorate us - and their love for God, knowledge, and excitement to study defy any years that might try to separate us.” Marcelo agreed that, “age is but a number, we have a hunger and desire to learn and continue to grow. They are intentionally experienced and knowledgeable; they’ve been studying and researching, and they represent Christianity through so many ministries. They go out as disciples, with open arms, integrity, wisdom, and discernment. There’s so much that you can learn.” Marcelo reasoned that it might have gone against the grain, intentionally joining an established Bible study of people in a different age range, but he said the couple “never felt anything but welcome hospitality from the class.” With such an eclectic bunch it’s to be expected that opinions run the gamut from conservative to liberal and

everything in between and that’s just what the Hernandez’ were looking for. The group tackles challenging topics but Marcelo was quick to note that, “While we may not always agree, we seek to understand each other's point of view.” “We all just tell it like it is as we see it..no judgments,” said Wilson. “The class knew how diverse we already were with our beliefs. They (Marcelo and Joanna) want to hear seasoned; we want to hear fresh. We are all open.” Marcelo and Joanna hadn't been attending the Bible study very long before he put out what some would consider a last-minute request. He had become acquainted with a gentleman by the name of Ash who worked at his local barbershop. Ash had recently rediscovered his faith and Marcelo suggested that a great next step would be baptism. St. Luke's Lead Pastor, Rev. Jennifer Stiles Williams helped Marcelo plan Ash’s big day by connecting him with the Winn family. Joyce remembers getting an email from New Directions facilitator, Bobby Cox, asking if she would get in contact with Marcelo, so she texted Marcelo and asked him what he needed and how she could help. Joyce recalls, “I almost croaked when he told me,” she said; “he wanted to invite our class to a baptism where he was going to baptize a friend.” Joyce recalls her reaction clearly, “I freaked … silently…I wasn’t sure if lay members were ‘allowed’ to baptize. Not willing to get into that, I tried to explain that ‘last minute’ invitations to people ‘our age’ would likely be kind of tricky.” The pair continued talking and Joyce noted that Marcelo took all of her questions (when, where, who, etc.) in stride while cheerfully and consistently responding with, “Pastor Jenn and I are working those details out…I’ll get back to you on that!” Joyce said normally these would be “too many unknowns” for her but his enthusiasm hooked her! It was Marcelo’s next statement that pulled at Joyce’s heartstrings, “I just so appreciate you listening to me. Even if no one can come, you listened. I’ve been in churches before where people st.lukes.org | 19

didn’t listen,” he said. From that point on Joyce was on board, “That broke my heart,” she said. “His politeness, his excitement, his love for God drew me in. How could I resist? He said he would get back to me with details... which he did.” Joyce helped Marcelo send an email to the rest of the New Directions class. Betty and Ray remembered receiving the email a day or two prior to the event. “As it happened,” Betty said, “the afternoon was free for us and we decided immediately to support them by our presence.” Marcelo had jumped in to follow what he felt was God's will. Betty and Ray agreed that even though it would be their first time at a lake baptism, it would be a powerful experience. Joyce affirmed that, “Marcelo’s enthusiasm, his love for God, and his commitment to serve are contagious... I remember when I was young, there were always old people in my little hometown in Oklahoma who were there to help, support, and encourage. The size of Orlando can make it hard to show support for others and to feel supported. AND, of course, it’s an entirely different century! A new millennium! So, here are these young people, a beautiful young married couple, coming to church, hanging out with people their parents and grandparents age...asking us to be a part of something important to them. Baptism is a very special event that begs to be shared with loved ones. I just wanted our class to be there for them.” Joyce retold the story of her emotions before heading to the Winn’s house that day, “I was nervous because I’m not too adventurous! New experiences usually terrify me,” she said. “I had not met the Winns. I didn’t know where they lived. And, then there were Marcelo’s descriptions... Actually, Ash’s physical appearance was shocking: Ash is a huge guy with multiple tattoos.” Ash had been in a motorcycle gang, that had found themselves on the wrong side of the law on multiple occasions. Joyce reflected that, “as is usual with many new experiences, God used Ash telling his story about his addictions and living a violent life, and how he found God and how he met Marcelo to deepen my faith and open

For help finding a Bible study that fits your needs, contact Amy Winslow, St. Luke's Director of Adult Ministries, at awinslow@st.lukes.org or 407.876.4991 ext. *297. 20 | Summer 2016

my heart, yet again, to new and different things. Yes, Ash’s life experiences are very, very different from mine, but his explanation of how he realized his need for God was very familiar to me personally as well as stories shared through the years by other members of the New Directions Sunday school class. As people gathered, the atmosphere was calm, casual, and expectant. Pastor Jenn encouraged Ash to share his story, and Betty remembers that made those gathered feel like they were taking part in a God-guided soul-changing happening. “What a privilege,” Betty exclaimed. When asked to define “family” Joyce said, “Individuals joined out of a love for someone or something and who show that love in practical ways consistently.” Marcelo and Joanna know that “family is an action, it transcends genetics and biology. You don’t need to be a blood relative to be my brother, or cousin, or mother. It’s about who’s there for you and who’s with you through your life experiences.” Betty spelled it out in Christian love when she said “family” means, “we are all related.” Anderson sums up the group sentiment by saying, “Marcelo and Joanna confirm that a young married couple in their 20’s share many of our old people values even though they often communicate them using different words. It’s obvious that our worlds are different while our struggles to be are real and similar. They affirm my hope for the world that the new generation is really not ‘going to the dogs!’” She goes on to say, “Many individuals have come and gone in the 20 years of New Directions but Marcelo and Joanna will be in our hearts forever.”

I Can Change Anything

By Mariam Mengistie, St. Luke's Director of Mission Development

Growing Spiritually While Restoring Hope for Those Incarcerated St. Lukers answer the call to be concerned for offenders (Matthew 5:38) and accept the responsibilities of Christians toward those who are incarcerated (Matthew 25: 36, 40). The Shalom Reading Ministry actively serves in the 33rd Street Jail and connects volunteers with incarcerated individuals in prisons throughout Central Florida. Volunteer instructors teach reading, writing, and comprehension. A seemingly simple exercise like “write down your skills and gifts in the petals of the flower drawing” can change the direction of the class without warning. “I have no skills and gifts. So, I don’t like this exercise!”, I watched a student say with frustration. The beauty of a faith-based program in this situation is that it’s OK, appropriate, and the perfect opportunity to say, “But you are gifted because you’re created in the image of God!” Participants long for such affirmation and a reminder that they are loved. Volunteers incorporate devotions, prayer, and spiritual mentoring into the program. The average reading grade level of those who participate in the Shalom Reading Ministry is 4th - 5th grade. For some, it has been a long time since they read or wrote. “My reading and writing skills that laid dormant for years are now awakened, and have begun to be fine-tuned. Something I never really thought about for many years until my encounter with all of you…I sat there in your

class and I thought if I could change that, I could change anything!”, Larry shared in a letter from 33rd Street Jail to his reading instructors. Another program in the Shalom Jail and Prison Ministry is the Pen Pal Ministry which reaches prisoners in Central Florida offering Christ-centered encouragement and hope. An inmate from one of the Correctional facilities once asked, “Do you take time for devotion?” because he found that spiritual discipline so helpful. The pen pal's response to him was “hold me accountable so I can grow spiritually.” The pen pal wanted to understand how the program worked, but didn't expect to be challenged, and encouraged to take time for devotion! Volunteers often get to witness attitudes changing, love being embraced, and self-worth developing in the inmates. Witnessing these transformations is watching God’s love and mercy come to life. The transformation is mutual both students and volunteers are changed! As people of faith, we believe the seeds planted through the Shalom volunteers are in the hands of God.

Learn how you can support Shalom Jail and Prison Ministry by contacting serve@st.lukes.org or 407.876.4991 ext. *239. st.lukes.org | 21

Journey to the Heart of Cuba by Sarah Ristorcelli, St. Luker since 2013

A team of five from St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s United Methodist Church visits our sister church in Melones, Cuba

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The world watched as President Obama made a historic trip to Cuba on March 20th of this year. He was the first U.S. president to visit the island since Calvin Coolidge made the trip in 1928. Just days before our nation’s leader landed on Cuban soil, a small team from St. Luke’s was also in Cuba, visiting with Pastor Rafael Furones and the Melones Methodist Church. While there were no parades to celebrate the arrival of this team of five, they were warmly embraced by church leaders from both Melones and Holguin. St. Luke’s partnership with Melones is part of the United Methodist’s effort to spur support, growth, and friendship between church communities in Florida and Cuba. Joel Strickland, team leader and construction supervisor; Patrick Zeigler, photographer and construction supervisor; Luky Nova, translator; Lynette Fields, co-team leader and children's program leader; and Pastor Jad Denmark, children's ministry and devotions leader visited Cuba from March 11-17.

The Back Story Until 1959, The Florida Conference of the Methodist Church included Cuba, so the Bishop serving Florida also served Cuba. The relationships were so strong that when Cubans moved to the United States after the revolution, many Cubans stayed in the Methodist church. Today, there are many Cuban Methodist churches throughout the Florida Conference, and they have a strong influence on the United Methodist Church throughout the state. Though the communist government in Cuba did not forbid religious practice, the complete economic embargo on Cuba imposed by the Kennedy administration in 1962 made relations very difficult. The Methodist Church’s General Conference opposed the embargo, and in 1964 the General Conference issued a statement questioning the US efforts to isolate particular countries, including Cuba. However, due to the restrictions in place, the 1968 United Methodist General Conference recognized the autonomy of the Methodist Church in Cuba, and the Conference in Cuba elected its own bishop. When diplomatic relations were restored between the two countries on July 20, 2015, communication between the churches, which had relied mostly on email, finally began to blossom. Now the friendships could become more personal. But that’s not where this story begins.

According to St. Luke’s Cuba team leader Joel Strickland, government restrictions on religion in Cuba eased almost twenty years ago when Cuba declared itself a secular country, and the bishops of Florida and Cuba started talking. In 1997, a formal covenant was affirmed by both bishops and the Florida and Cuba conferences, it is now called Methodists United in Prayer (MUIP). The purpose of this common ministry is to pray for one another, study scripture together, create an interchange of people, enable training of laity and clergy, and share our culture and history. In 2008, St. Luke’s was paired with Melones Methodist Church in a small farming community near the city of Holguin on the eastern side of Cuba.

Connecting in Cuba The pairing is a study in contrasts. While St. Luke’s is one of Florida’s largest UM church, Melones is thirty members strong. But “St. Luke’s has a history of going to remote places,” says team member and Executive Director of Missions Lynette Fields. “Within Conferences there are Districts, and our District was matched with the Holguin District. Carla Bitterling, a St. Luker, was part of an exploratory district team that traveled to Holguin in the early 2000s. She requested Melones to be our sister church after hearing stories about the congregation and community and realizing it would be a good fit.” The fact that Melones’ physical building had been wiped out by a hurricane ignited St. Luke’s compassion and attention. The existing building was reduced to rubble, so Melones church members had built a tiki hut on the original slab for its services. A remaining shack on the property became the pastor’s home.

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“When St. Luke’s got involved, instead of surveying the scene and telling people in Melones what we thought they needed, we asked them what they needed,” says Strickland. “Their top priority was a proper home for their minister.” In Cuba, pastors earn about $15.00 per month, but the benefits of the communist system help them survive. Universal health care, food rations, free education and subsidized utilities enable pastors and their families to keep working to fulfill their duties to their church communities. Still, without appropriate facilities for services, the Melones group was struggling.

Building the Residence Strickland explains that under the current Cuban regulations, you can’t build a new church, but only refurbish, repair, or rebuild existing churches. In 2012, instead of a new church the Melones congregation built a new home for the minister with a very large living room to be used for small church gatherings allowing them to stay within regulations. St. Luke’s did not physically build the structure, because sending a missions team to do the construction would have taken jobs from people who live and work locally. Melones’ builders sketched out a plan and did all the labor themselves. St. Luke’s Mission Capital Endowment, created out of the church's early 1990's capital campaign, funded this project.

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March Visit The purpose of the March visit was to continue to build the relationship with the people in the Melones congregation. Pastor Rafael and Pastora Laru are just in their second year serving as leaders of this small congregation. They are a young enthusiastic couple with a six-year-old son named Marcos. In addition to the congregation in Melones, Pastor Rafael also is responsible for two nearby growing missions who have unpaid Cuban missionaries serving as leaders. This small group of leaders with a deep faith in Christ is bringing the Word of God to this small community and as a result the church and its missions are growing. Our St. Luke’s team worshipped in the tiki hut that serves as the worship center on Saturday night with a congregation that included the Melones members and people from the two missions who walked miles to be a part of the service. Over the next few days, the team helped with a children’s program, participated in a bilingual Bible study, took an art class from Pastor Rafael, who had studied art before becoming a pastor, and shared meals together. This growing friendship is the heart of this partnership. During the visit, the team learned that initial steps toward sanctuary construction have begun with hopes of breaking ground before the end of the year. The congregation and leaders have many hopes and dreams about how the space can be used to reach out to the community in addition to providing a more permanent place for worship.

Partners in Christ The two congregations have a lot to learn from one another. Melones Methodist Church maintains a prayer list for their friends at St. Luke’s that hangs on the wall of their worship center and those prayers are part of their weekly service. Prayer needs and outcomes are shared regularly via email. The St. Luke’s team joined with Melones church members for a bilingual Bible study written by Dr. Justo Gonzalez, a Cuban theologian and author, during their visit, underscoring the shared concerns and equal footing of everyone involved. The Bible study, which included contributions from all the participants, in some ways mirrored principles that have drawn locals to the Cuban United Methodist Church. Instead of attempting to imprint American styles of worship and study, the Cuban Conference avoids Colonialist models and celebrates authentic Cuban culture in its practices. As Cuba’s Bishop Ricardo Pereira Diaz explained, the Cuban church uses a Caribbean liturgy “because it allows people to express themselves with authenticity and freedom.” This is particularly appealing to young Cubans raised in a secular culture, who are attracted to a church that embraces their Cuban heritage. In addition to lively worship, contemplative prayer, theological formation, and Bible study, the Methodist Church in Cuba is intentional in living out the gospel in ways that influence society. "For example, we have ministries that support...vulnerable

families, particularly those headed by single mothers," Bishop Pereira explained. "We want to have all the good things of the gospel come to pass in our country." St. Luke’s is encouraged to see Melones Methodist Church living out Bishop Pereira’s vision and being a part of the tremendous growth of the Methodist Church in Cuba. Since 1999, the church has grown from 8,000 to 36,000 members who embrace Cuban culture and welcome everyone in the community regardless of their faith or political background. Currently, there are over 400 Methodist churches across the country and 800 missions. It is growing an average of 10% per year in membership and 15% per year in worship attendance. Fields had this to say when asked about the relationship between the two churches after the March visit, “The hope we experienced in Melones and in Cuba as a whole was contagious and very exciting. A faithful remnant kept the Methodist Church in Cuba alive throughout the last 50 years and there is a strong foundation on which to continue growing. Our Melones brothers and sisters in Christ welcome our friendship and support as they share their faith in their community and build a physical and spiritual home for their neighbors.”

To learn more about global missions at St. Luke's visit st.lukes.org/global.

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Chair Time

Spending time in conversation with God can quench your soul. Journey through this summer with St. Luke's. Learn to "Pull Up a Chair" and build relationships with others and God.

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Find Your Chair Time

Sitting Down to Listen

By Rev. Jennifer Stiles Williams St. Luke's Lead Pastor

By Dr. Joanne MacPherson, M.A., N.C.C, L.M.H.C. Director, St. Luke's Community Counseling Center

This year, St. Luke’s studied Simplify: 10 Steps to Unclutter Your Soul by Bill Hybel’s. A key focus from the book was a spiritual discipline called “chair time” meant to designate spending time in conversation with God. Since St. Luke’s summer sermon series is titled “Pull Up A Chair” this is a great reminder to “pull up a chair with God.”

Intentional listening sends a powerful message.

Richard Foster writes in his book Celebration of Discipline: “The Spiritual Disciplines are intended for our good. They are meant to bring the abundance of God into our lives.” (pg.9) Pulling up a chair with God on a daily basis is just as important as pulling up a chair with your significant other, your child, a dear friend, your parent. Holy conversations where we open up with one another and share our lives build deeper, more abundant relationships. The one relationship that we want to be most significant and guiding is often the one that gets the least time – our relationship with God. We all know how important it is to be intentional in our significant relationships to let another know they are valued and to share our life. The same is true with our relationship with our Creator. David writes in Psalm 42: As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirst for God, for the living God. When shall I come and behold the face of God? So much of our desperation and longing for more in our daily life, longing for balance, center, fulfillment, peace will only find its meaning when we admit that who and what are souls are longing for is more time with God, a more abundant relationship with God. The only way for the relationship to be abundant is to spend time centered on God – seeking silence, studying scripture or a devotional, journaling, and having a conversation of prayer. So where’s your chair? Where is the chair that will become your “go to” spot to pull up when you are in need of direction, or healing, or rest, or even to pause for celebration and thanksgiving? May you not only find this time and space but may it also be the place where your abundance is increased and your soul is quenched. Need help with what to do during chair time? Contact Amy Winslow, St. Luke’s Director of Adult Ministries, at awinslow@st.lukes.org for a list of resources.

The slower rhythms of summer mean a different structure, maybe even less structure and pressure. Summer often affords the opportunity to spend more time with people who love you. So pull up a chair and hang out with partners, kids, friends, and neighbors. If the chair rocks, even better! Sitting with kids or a spouse is a different type of quality time then throwing a ball or playing a board game. Just hanging out is a time to be present with friends or family by giving the gift of listening. Sound easy? In fact, intentional listening can be very challenging. Usually people think they are listening but in fact their mind is busy forming an answer, waiting for a chance to speak or thinking about the next thing they have to do. Listening is a selfless act because it means less of you in the conversation and more of the other person. Listening by definition means not speaking; it means reserving opinions and judgments as well as refraining from negative comments that you are thinking. Parents may find it boring to listen to their kids or perceive that as parents, they must comment or correct. Just being a listener opens up and encourages communication. Often you can be physically present but emotionally absent because your thoughts are elsewhere. True listening means setting distracting thoughts aside and being focused on what the other person is saying and feeling. Being willing to listen sends the message that your children, significant other, and friends are important to you. Listening sends the message “I value you.”

St. Luke’s Community Counseling Center offers caring individual and family counseling to fit your budget. To schedule an appointment call 407.876.4991 ext. *250. st.lukes.org | 27

Pull up a Chair

Last year as Lead Pastor Jennifer Stiles Williams was holding listening sessions to hear from the congregation about their hopes and dreams for the future of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, she heard one comment that really resonated with the church’s purpose of building the Kingdom. The comment was made that many years ago neighborhoods were different. People actually knew their neighbors. Folks looked out for each other when they were away from home. They gathered on front porches to talk about what was going on in their lives, share their family stories, and offer help when it was needed. There was a true sense of neighborhood. We live in a day and age where the sense of the “neighborhood” has been lost. We’ve moved into a more individualized lifestyle. Over the next six months in worship, St. Luke’s will begin to move through the household of faith and grow deeper as a community of believers. In June and July the church will spend some time on the “front porch” getting to know one another. This begins with spending time together to reclaim the feeling of the neighborhood, where people feel welcome to stop in and pull up a chair. Sunday messages will center on the parables of Jesus where everyone was welcome, found, loved, and given a picture of a more perfect neighborhood – the Kingdom of God. Visit St. Luke’s this summer and spend time on the front porch listening to the greatest storyteller of all time-Jesus.

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The St. Luke’s community will move further into the house where, in August, the church will get comfortable in the family room, defining again what it means to be the family of St. Luke’s. Sunday messages and weekly study classes will center on “family time,” as St. Lukers commit to worship, connect, and grow in order to serve together in building the Kingdom. Then in the fall, move into the kitchen with St. Luke’s where dialog gets heated up through courageous conversations around a sacred table set with grace. Experience the kinds of conversations that happen in the heart of the home. During this time when our nation and our community could succumb to divisive rhetoric, our hope is that St. Luke’s will begin to create a neighborhood where people feel welcome and where they find acceptance. This summer, pull up a chair and meet St. Lukers on the front porch, and then move into the living room to spend some time getting to know the family of St. Luke’s. As we move into the kitchen, these relationships will help us enter into courageous grace filled conversations where we practice learning about each other through kindness, respect, grace, and presence.

To learn more about worship and events at St. Luke’s starting this summer visit st.lukes.org/summer.

Stewardship by The Rev. Corey Jones, Minister of Stewardship Stewardship is far more than giving financially to the church. As Christian stewards we are called to give of our time, abilities, and resources. Explore what it means to be a good steward by signing up for one of the fall classes listed to the right. 1

THRIVE on Wednesdays Starting Wednesday, September 14, adults, youth, and children come together on Wednesdays to connect with each other and grow in faith. Adults engage in group study or choir rehearsal, while children and youth connect and grow with age appropriate programming. To register for classes visit st.lukes.org/thrive.

Financial Peace University (FPU): Oct. 5 -Dec. 7 We all need a plan for our money. FPU teaches God’s ways of handling money. Learn how to get rid of debt, manage money, spend and save wisely, and more!

Crossword Puzzle Answers:

Across: 3. Pledging and giving are expectations for 5. A pledge is a _________ commitment to grow in faith. 6. Stewardship describes "A way to _________ God" 7. You can always _________ your pledge 9. Practicing good stewardship, means growing in

Across: 3. Members 5. Personal 6. Worship 7. Adjust 9. Discipleship

Down: 1. Stewardship relates to the way we manage our 2. Stewardship is a faith practice, like 4. Giving is influenced by 8. Pledging to _________ is a commitment to trust God. 10. The church budget should describe a _________ to serve God.

Legacy Journey: Oct. 5-Nov. 16 The Legacy Journey is an all-new, biblically-based class that leads you deeper into investing, basic estate planning, purposeful living, safeguarding your legacy, and discovering the keys to generational wealth and true generosity. You’ll learn a biblical framework for living intentionally now so that later you’ll be able to leave a legacy that will secure your family’s future and make a lasting impact on the world around you. Down: 1. Resources 2. Prayer 4. Gratitude 8. Tithe 10. Plan

How to Be Rich: Sept. 14-Oct. 5 Most of us think that since we worry about paying bills, and wonder how we’ll pay for large expenses that we’re not wealthy, we’re only average. Learn how to shift your perception of wealth. In How to Be Rich, author Andy Stanley provides food for thought as he seeks to change your mind about your resources. It’s not about how much you have, it’s about what you do with what you have.

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4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Rd. Orlando, FL 32819

Upcoming Events st.lukes.org/events

Grow during THRIVE Wednesday Programs September 14

Summer Camps st.lukes.org/camps

Connect and Serve at St. Luke’s Pumpkin Patch October 12-28

Vacation Bible School (Kindergarten-Rising 6th Grade) June 20-24

Connect at St. Luke’s Campout October 14

God’s Big Backyard (Preschool) July 11-15

Connect at the Neighborhood Ice Cream Socials July 17

Grow at the Project Connect Retreat October 28-30

Neighborhood Camps (Kindergarten-Rising grade 6) July 25-29 & August 1-5

Connect at the United Methodist Women's Great Exchange and Potluck July 23

Worship

Serve with Coalition for the Homeless June 18 Connect with St. Luke’s Soccer Registration Opens July 1

Serve through the St. Luke’s Backpack Drive July 24-August 7 Connect at Big River August 12-14 and 18-21 Connect at St. Luke's Newcomer Welcome Luncheon August 21

st.lukes.org/schedule Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary 8:00, 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.

For more information about St. Luke's visit st.lukes.org, email social@st.lukes.org, or call 407.876.4991 ext. *302.

Contemporary Worship in the Coleman Memorial Gymnasium 9:30 and 11:00 a.m. All worship services on July, 3 will meet in the Sanctuary.

Have a St. Luke's story you would like to share? Email us at social@st.lukes.org.