IHow an Organist’s Salary Became a Seminary Scholarship
magine being part of something that outlives you—a legacy of faith, service and care that blesses future generations. That’s exactly what the O’Dell family of Minden, La., has done by creating a scholarship fund for aspiring United Methodist Church pastors in the Louisiana Conference. Their story is not just one of giving, but of visionary leadership—and it serves as a powerful example of how we can all contribute to the church’s future.
The late Nelva and Digger O’Dell were active members of their local church, where they served on every committee and guided countless young people as youth counselors. Nelva, especially, was deeply rooted in the rhythm of church life, serving as the church organist. She cherished this role so much that she didn’t want to accept any pay. However, the pastor at the time insisted that the salary remain in the church budget.
So, in true Nelva fashion, she found a way to turn her blessing into a blessing for others.
Rather than keep her salary, Nelva began depositing it into a special fund for seminary students who would eventually serve as United Methodist pastors in Louisiana. She knew firsthand the financial burden of seminary, having watched her sons, Rev. Dr. Jack O’Dell and Rev. Larry O’Dell, navigate those challenges while balancing family life and their calling. Jack and Larry served as United Methodist pastors within the
state for over 45 years, making Nelva’s dream of supporting future pastors even more personal.
Reflecting on his family’s legacy, Jack says, “It’s an investment in leadership and the future of the church. We, as older leaders, need to support young pastors and let them know we believe in them. We care for them now, and one day, they will care for us.”
In time, Nelva moved the fund to the United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana, ensuring it would be managed and invested to maximize its impact. Today, the Eskew O’Dell Memorial Scholarship, named for Jack and Larry’s late parents and sisters, provides at
See O’Dell, page 2
For the late Nelva and M.S. “Digger” O’Dell, the United Methodist Church wasn’t just a Sunday commitment; it was a way of life.
Legacies Editor: Kelly Johannessen kellyj@umf.org 2024 Board of Trustees
Unlock $4,000 for College
United Methodist Higher Education Fund Matching Program
Paying for college can be a stressful experience, and for many, it plays a major role in their college choice.
Bobby Fahey Chairman
Abby Cochran
Rev. Clifton Conrad
Rev. Jo Ann Cooper
Joe Crouch, Jr.
Omer Davis
Drew Kennedy
Bob Kimbro
Sandra Kuykendall
Eunice Val Lavigne
Richard Lewis
Rev. Mimi McDowell
Sen. Willie Mount
Troy Searles
Rev. Drew Sutton
Dianne Wilkinson
Chris Spencer President
Contact Us:
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Phone: (225) 346-1535
Email: information@umf.org
Web Addresses: www.umf.org www.umfgiving.org
The United Methodist Higher Education Foundation’s Dollars for Scholars Program can help those attending United Methodist-related institutions.
Dollars for Scholars provides matching support from a student’s local church, the UMHEF, participating United Methodistrelated schools and United Methodist Foundations, such as the United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana. Combined, awards can total up to $4,000 per year!
Since 2017, the United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana has proudly participated in this matching program, helping nearly 30 students from the Methodist community pursue higher education.
If you have a family member, friend, or church member who is considering college, make sure to tell them about this fantastic opportunity!
To qualify, students must meet basic eligibility requirements and reapply each year.
Lauren Broussard LeBouef University UMC, Baton Rouge Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary
Owen Rodrigue
Cora Wright
First UMC, Baton Rouge Southwestern University
First UMC, Alexandria Centenary College of Louisiana
For more information on eligibility and how to apply, visit www.umhef.org/umdfs.
O’Dell, continued from page 1
least one $1,000 yearly scholarship to a seminary student serving the Louisiana Conference.
The United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana oversees $8.3 million in scholarship funds for the Conference’s Board of Ordained Ministry, including the O’Dell scholarship. Students can find more information and application details at www.umf.org/scholarships
The O’Dell family’s story is a living testimony to the power of legacy giving. Their generosity has already touched the
lives of many pastors and will continue to do so forever. “The Foundation gives us all a way to invest,” Jack adds. “Anyone can sponsor a ministry opportunity beyond their lifetime.”
Is there a ministry that ignites your heart? If so, contact the Foundation to discuss creating a scholarship or endowment fund to support it.
Like the O’Dell family, you can transform your passion into a gift that lasts beyond your lifetime—one that invests in the future of the church, forever.
2024 Dollars For Scholars Scholarship Recipients Name Church Home College
Emma Harris St. Charles UMC, Destrehan Centenary College of Louisiana
Harris LeBouef
Rodrigue Wright
savvy LIvIng
Helpful Tips for Maintaining Balance
Dear Savvy Living,
I have fallen a few times over the past year and was interested in learning balance exercises that can help improve my steadiness?
Most people do not think about practicing to maintain their balance but having good balance can be important to staying healthy. Our balance may decline if we do not stay active. Poor balance can potentially lead to falls which may cause injuries.
Every year, more than one in four people who have reached age 65 or older experience a fall. This risk increases with age. Here is what you should know about balance, along with some exercises to improve your stability.
Conditions that Affect Balance
Balance is something many people take for granted until it is impacted by a medical condition, medication or advanced age. These factors can affect a person’s balance and make an individual less stable over time.
Poor balance can also lead to a vicious cycle of inactivity. If you feel a little unsteady, you may curtail certain activities. If you are less active, you may not be challenging your balance systems or using your muscles as much. As a result, both your balance and strength may suffer. Simple
activities like strolling through a grocery store or getting up from a chair become more difficult.
Balance Exercises
Some individuals have balance problems tied to illness, medication or other specific causes. If you are experiencing problems with your balance, you should always consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise program. While your healthcare provider may recommend specific therapies based on your condition, here are four simple exercises some people use to help preserve and improve balance:
One-legged stands: Stand on one foot for 30 seconds or longer, then switch to the other foot. Stand near a wall or chair for assistance if needed. For an extra challenge, try closing your eyes or standing on a throw pillow.
Heel-to-toe walking: Take 20 steps while looking straight ahead. Try to walk in a perfectly straight line.
Standing up: Without using your hands, get up from a straightbacked chair and sit back down 10 to 20 times. This improves balance and leg strength.
Tai chi: Research has shown that the practice of tai chi, which uses a combination of slow, graceful movements, meditation and deep breathing, can help improve balance and reduce the risk of falls.
For more information on different balance exercises you can do at home, there are a variety of balance and strength exercises available online, including beginner tai chi instructional videos. Additionally, some senior fitness programs offer online classes that guide you through exercises you can do at home.
Visit with a Doctor
If you have already fallen, are noticeably dizzy, unsteady or have a medical condition affecting your balance, you should consult a doctor. The doctor might refer you to a physical therapist or to an appropriate balance-training class in your community. It is important to know that many medicines and medical conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, diabetes and inner-ear disorders can affect balance.
“Savvy Living” is written by Jim Miller, a regular contributor to the NBC Today Show and author of The Savvy Living book.
“Where Faith and Money Come Together”
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Foundation Awards $150K+ in Grants
During its most recent grant award cycle, the United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana awarded more than $150,000 to 18 churches and ministries to serve people in need across Louisiana.
The grant funds will benefit diverse age groups and churches in rural communities and urban centers. Notably, Cornerstone United Methodist Church of New Orleans received the largest grant for its Community Lighthouse project.
Community Lighthouse aims to provide essential services and support during natural disasters in New Orleans East, a historically underserved area.
A complete list of grants awarded this cycle is shown at right.
Since its inception in 1992, the Foundation’s grants program has awarded more than $7 million to strengthen the Louisiana United Methodist Church and its related ministries.
The program focuses on four primary outreach categories: equipping clergy and laity for ministry; developing innovative ministries; fostering connections with the church, community, and Louisiana Conference; and responding to or preparing for natural disasters.
Grant application deadlines are March 1, July 1 and October 15 each year. The Foundation uses a web-based application and post-reporting system. Detailed information and the application process can be found at www.umf.org/grants.
Summer 2024 Grant Awards
Church/Organization
Academy for Spiritual Formation Retreat
Aldersgate UMC Backpack Blessings
Asbury UMC Digital Discipleship
Black Clergy Women of the UMC Conference Sponsorships
Broadmoor UMC, Baton Rouge Yogamass
Calvary UMC Computer Class
Calvary UMC Lunch and Learn
Cornerstone UMC Community Lighthouse
Front Yard Bikes
Youth Expansion
Louisiana UM The Happening 3-Day Spiritual Retreat
Magnolia UMC
Moss Bluff UMC
Summer Bible Camp
Youth Hangout
Noel UMC Community Arts Program Arts and Appetites
Neely UMC
St. Luke Simpson UMC
Thomas UMC
God’s Angels Dance Class
Manna Ministries
Insight Ministries Total