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May 24, 2013
Prayers for the People .
The Rev. Albert Ketron Lane Jr., 80, died Wednesday, May 22, at home. Visitation will be held at 1 p.m. at Westminster UMC in Westminster. The Rev. Laura Easto will officiate his funeral at Westminster UMC, Friday, May 24, at 2 p.m., preceded by visitation at 1 p.m. Condolences may be sent to his son, the Rev. Bert Lane, who was an Elder in the Baltimore-Washington Conference and now serves in the Evangelical Lutheran Maryland-Delaware Synod. Memorial contributions may be made to Westminster United Methodist Church, 165 E. Main St., Westminster, MD. 21157 or University of Maryland Medical Center, Division of Transplantation, 29 S. Greene St., Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21201. Obituary may be seen at: www.fletcherfuneralhome.net/obits/obituary.php?id=298867.
The Rev. Alfred Vaughn, 90, a retired Elder, died May 21. Services details are pending. Condolences may be sent to his wife: Martha Vaughn, 5465 Bucknell oad, Baltimore, MD 21206-3823.
The Rev. Edgar Howell, 84, an ordained UMC Elder who served in various conferences, and served in his retirement years in healing ministries at Middletown UMC, died May 13 after suffering with Alzheimer’s disease for a number of years. Services will be held at Resthaven Chapel in Frederick, Saturday, May 25, at 1 p.m. with the Rev. Linda Warehime officiating. Condolences can be sent to daughter Mrs. Judy Ziegler at mamazig65@gmail.com
Joseph Haskins, the son of the Rev. Bruce Haskins, pastor of John Wesley UMC in Baltimore, was shot and killed May 8. A Celebration of Life was held Saturday, May 18, at John Wesley UMC in Baltimore. Condolences may be sent to Haskins and his wife Deborah Haskins, 4400 Wentworth Road, Baltimore, MD 21207-7477 or RevDrBFHaskins@aol.com. Memorial donations may be made to assist Joseph Haskins’ two-month-old child. Mail checks, made out to Conference Treasurer and noted Haskins’ Memorial Fund, to the Rev. William Chaney, 11711 East Market Place, Fulton, MD 20759
On May 23 Pastor Ruth Dixon, associate pastor at First Saints Community UMC in Leonardtown, will have surgery May 23. Please pray for a successful surgery and recovery. Well wishes may be sent to her at 920 Ed Joy Road, Lusby, MD 20657.
Obituaries of clergy and clergy spouses may be found on the conference website.
New This Week
ANNUAL CONFERENCE PREP
Annual Conference: "Sowing the Seed: Be Light" is the theme of the 229th session of the Baltimore-Washington Conference, which will be held May 29-31 at the Waterfront Marriott Hotel in Baltimore. Details about the event, including costs and the agenda, are available online.Discount registration closed April 17.
Bring bread for Communion: The BWC Asian American Ministry is inviting churches to bring bread from their congregations for the opening worship of the Annual Conference Session May 29. Bread may be dropped off at the registration desk of the Waterfront Marriott Hotel from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. that Wednesday. For more information, contact the Rev. Daewha Park at 202-277-8553 or daewha@gmail.com.
Workshop on pensions: For all active clergy, prior to the opening of annual conference, Wednesday, May 29, at 9:30 a.m. a representative from the General Board of Pensions and Health Benefits will explain the changes to the Clergy Retirement Security Plan, (CRSP) which will take effect Jan. 1, 2014. Registration is required and can be done through the online annual conference registration process. Those who have already registered for the conference session can re-open their registrations to sign up for this event. Some of the highlights of the workshop include:
UPDATE - Opportunities for learning day before annual conference: On Wednesday, May 29, from 1:30 t0 4 p.m., classes for everyone are being offered. These include workshops on "Creating "REAL Church," Older Adult Ministries, Safe Sanctuaries and "Effective Stewardship Techniques for the Local Church." The workshops are $35. Register for them online. If you've already registered to attend the annual conference session, you may add the class to your registration. Some classes are full.
Special meals at annual conference: Please be reminded that you must sign up for any special meals that will take place at annual conference when you register for annual conference. The meals being served are: Wed. May 29, BMCR for lunch. Thursday lunches are scheduled for Local pastors, Wesley Alumni, UMM/UMW, Candler Seminary and Boston Seminary. Thursday dinner is BWARM/MFSA.
REGISTRATION CLOSED - UMM & UMW Luncheon at annual conference:The UMM & UMW are combining for a luncheon May 30, 11:30 a.m., at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront Hotel. The Rev. Lorenza Andeade will speak. She is an ordained Elder who gave up her pastoral pay and her medical and pension benefits to minister with the poor and marginalized and live among the homeless. Cost of the meal, which must be registered for with annual conference registration, is $27.
REGISTRATION CLOSED - Health screenings at annual conference: Those who wish to have a health screening at the annual conference session May 30 and 31 are reminded they must register before Thursday, May 9. To register, call 1-866-908-9440 or visit the HealthFlex/WebMDsite. A $100 health cash incentive accompanies the screenings.
Health kits sought: Churches are asked to create and bring Health Kits to the annual conference session in Baltimore May 29-31. These kits, distributed by the United Methodist Committee on Relief, assist victims of disaster around the world. They are made up of very specific items, which cost about $12 per kit. Details concerning kit contents can be found at: http://www.umcor.org/UMCOR/Relief-Supplies and click on Health button.
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Older Adult Recognition Sunday, any Sunday in May — Resources compiled by the Virginia Annual Conference.
Aldersgatge Day: May 24 is Aldersgate Day. This celebrates Methodism's founder John Wesley's life-changing experience at a meeting on Aldersgate Street, London, May 24, 1738. He wrote extensively of that experience in his journal for that day. Read Wesley’s words at Interpreter Online
Disaster response: How to help: As news continues to pour in of the vast devastation in Moore, Okla., from a wide tornado yesterday, United Methodists are responding. It is too soon to send VIM teams to help, but money and prayers are always helpful. Here are some places to check for information and find out how you can be part of United Methodist relief efforts:
UMNS Facebook page
United Methodist Committee on Relief
Donate to UMCOR relief efforts
Relief Supplies needed: UMCOR, The United Methodist Committee on Relief, has urgent need for relief supplies. UMCOR Sager Brown in Baldwin, La., and UMCOR West in Salt Lake City, Utah, are running very low in their inventory of layette, sewing and bedding kits particularly, but other relief supplies are needed as well, and now on the heels of the Oklahoma tornado, flood buckets and health kits will be in high demand. To see how you can help: Learn how to assemble kits; Church bulletin inserts.
Starting over: The BWC's Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministry will host Healing Communities training May 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Randall Memorial UMC, 1002 46th St. NW in Washington, D.C. Healing Communities is an intensive training that helps churches heal broken lives and relationships among returning prisoners and the communities that welcome them home. It engages congregations in restoring people affected by crime, incarceration and reintegration. The leader and registrar is the Rev. Brian Jackson.The cost is $25, which includes continental breakfast, lunch and training materials. For more information and to register, visit http://www.randallumc.org/healing-communities.html or Register online.
Peace with Justice Sunday is May 26. It is one of sixUnited Methodist Special Sundays with offering. The Peace with Justice Sunday offering aids disciples, young and old, who are changing lives and the world inspired by Christ’s gospel of love and liberation. To read stories of changed lives, click here. The offering, administered through the General Board of Church & Society, is distributed in the annual conference, the U.S. and globally through grants. For more information and free resources, go to Overview or Resources.
Interfaith production: Bethesda UMC and its neighbor Congregation Beth El are presenting a joint “full-blown, razzle-dazzle, knock-your-socks-off production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” Sunday, June 2, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Bethesda UMC, 8300 Old Georgetown Road in Bethesda. Admission is free, an offering will be taken, 100% of which will be donated to Bethesda Cares, supported by both congregations throughout the year. For more information, see www.washmorefeet.org or www.bethelmc.org.
Putting the WOW in worship: Many church leaders struggle in the midst of busy schedules to put together vibrant, inspiring worship services each week. The BWC has arranged for Jason Moore of Midnight Oil to lead two identical workshops Thursday, June 13, and Friday, June 14, at the BWC Mission Center, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Worship teams are encouraged to attend together Register online at http://www.bwcumc.org/events/putting_wow_worship/
Help for Moving: Are you a pastor preparing to begin ministry in a new setting? With The Right Start DVD/CD Resource, you’ll learn how to end your current ministry well, develop a personal transition plan, and make the most of your first days, weeks and months in your new congregation. The Right Start is available in both Pastor’s and Group Training Versions. Learn more.
50 ways to welcome a new pastor: The Rev. Bob Crossman, minister of new church starts and congregational development in the Arkansas Annual Conference, offers advice 50 ways to welcome a new pastor. This essay is offered by the Lewis Center for Church Leadership at United Methodist Wesley Theological Seminary. Read list.
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Emotional Intelligence and Human Relations Workshop: The 5-day workshop will be held June 3-7 at the Claggett Conference Center in Buckeystown. Workshop is designed for clergy and seminarians to train in human relations skills so important for effective congregational ministry. Tuition for the EQ-HR workshop is $595 and the 360 EQ assessment is $185. Food and lodging are separate. The commuter rate is $236. To learn much more and register. go to www.eqhrcenter.org. Founder and Executive Director of the Center for EQ-HR Skills is Roy M. Oswald, an ordained ECLA clergy and senior consultant to the Alban Institute for 31 years.
‘PLAN NOW - ‘The Shack’ authors to speak: Timonium UMC, 2500 Pot Spring Road in Timonium will host William Paul Young, the author of “The Shack” and “Crossroads,” and C. Baxter Kruger, author of “The Shack Revisited” Friday, July 12, at 7 p.m., for a presentation and book signing. Cost is $30. All are welcome. For tickets, phone 410-252-5500, for questions, contact Trudy Guetler at tgruetler@verizon.net. She has promotional materials.
2013 UMM National Gathering: This event with 4,000 men from throughout the country will be held at Belmont University in Nashville July 12-14. The theme is“Inside Out for the Glory of God.” For less than $500 (including ransportation lodging, meals and registration) you can be part of the 3-day gathering. For bus registration ($150), email bweller@bwcumm.organd register for the event at www.ummgathering.org($199 registration + $100 lodging) or call 866-297-4313. Register by June 1. Further information from Bill Weller at 410-354-5533. Click Here to Download Brochure. Learn more and register. Further questions? Contact Martha Davis or Joshua Eldson at 615-340-7145 or 866-297-4313
BCCW is coming soon: The 30th annual Baltimore County Christian Workcamp will occur July 21-26. Founded by two United Methodist ministers in 1984, it is lay run and ecumenical. It seeks to involve volunteers, high school age on up, of all different levels of skills and abilities in “improving the homes of and providing assistance for some limited income families in Baltimore County.” BCCW is a commuters’ workcamp and volunteers may commit for a day or return each day for the week. Breakfast is served at Hunt’s Memorial UMC in Riderwood and bag lunches provided. Dinner is served each evening at a different church. In addition to volunteer workers, the BCCW can always use appropriate supplies and donations. BCCW is a 501(c)(3) organization, and donations are tax deductible to the extent allowable by law. For more information or a brochure, go to www.bcchristianworkcamp.org or email bcchristianworkcamp@comcast.net.
RMN Convocation: The Reconciling Ministries Network is holding its national convocation at the National 4-H Center, 7100 Connecticut Ave., in Chevy Chase Labor Day weekend, Aug. 30, 5:30 p.m. to Sept. 2, noon. “Churchquake: Embracing Freedom,” is open to all who wish to learn about the movement for full LGBTQ inclusion in The United Methodist Church through worship, conversation and action. Deadline to RSVP is July 1. For questions, contactconvo@rmnetwork.org. View the convo webpage.
Feature film on fighting malaria: Imagine No Malaria will be presenting “A Killer in the Dark,” a documentary about malaria and its prevention. This special television event, narrated by Pauley Perrette (of TV’s NCIS) will air on NBC affiliates (check your local listings) through Nov. 3.Help make sure “Killer in the Dark” is part of your local NBC station’s lineup between May 5 and Nov. 3. Here’s how:
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Call or email your local NBC affiliate and ask them to share this important message with your community. Request that it be scheduled during a time to reach the most viewers.
- Here is an NBC affiliate directory to help.
- Sample script for emailing your local station
- Spread the word. Ask your congregation and other groups to call and help your local affiliates to choose to air the broadcast.
- Watch it together. Congregations and community groups are encouraged to view the documentary together and engage in conversation on how to become involved. Join the movement | Get involved | Get Resources and ideas| Give
Check here for the list of stationsconfirmed to broadcast “Killer in the Dark,” which is growing every day.
Susanna Wesley House annual meeting: “Inspired to Serve 2013” is the theme for the annual fundraising dinner for Susannah Wesley House. It will be held Sept. 14, 12:30 p.m. at the beautiful Tremont Historic Grand Venue, 225 North Charles St., in Baltimore. For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit the website at www.susannawesley.org.
Plant a tree: The Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake, is participating in Gov. O’Malley’s Tree Restoration Program. IPC is recruiting sites to plant trees. Sites can be along streams or in urban communities or anywhere in between. The trees are free and there is assistance and tree maintenance for three years, plus an educational component. Preferred are congregations near streams, but other sites and communities may also participate. For questions about participation and general information see http://www.chesapeakecovenant.org/trees.htmor contact dottie@chesapeakecovenant.org.
Save the Date: Mission u (formerly called School of Christian Mission) is scheduled for July 26-28 at the Marriott Hotel in Bethesda. There will be classes for everyone, youth and adults, women and men, clergy and laity. More information coming.
Discounts for UMCs at Staples: The General Council on Finance and Administration (GCFA) has entered into an agreement with Staples to provide preferred pricing and discounts on purchases, through the Staples® Advantage business-to-business purchasing program, available to churches, district offices, annual conferences, jurisdictions, general agencies, and other United Methodist related institutions. Through the program United Methodists will receive preferred pricing on an established list of office and cleaning supplies as well as on a custom list of supplies particular to the individual congregation, office, or agency’s needs; a 15 percent discount on all other items; the ability to order online and receive next day delivery; and an annual 1 to 3 percent volume-based rebate. The total of all sales to United Methodist organizations will result in a 1 percent annual rebate to the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR). Start the process. By completing the online form with basic contact information, a Staples sales representative in your area will contact you to answer questions about the program and sign you up. For more information and to sign up, email UnitedMethodists@staples.com.
FOCUS ON YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS
New website for UM young adults: A collaboration among United Methodist agencies and local ministries has produced a new website, www.revgo.org to help connect young adults in "spiritual discernment through missional engagement." revGO can be used as a platform for fundraising, story sharing and recruitment. It is a network of and for various agency, annual conference, district, and independent programs across the global UMC Connection. For more information.
Exploration 2013: Exploration 2013 is an event and opportunity for young adults, ages 18-26, who are considering ordained ministry, sponsored by United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry. It will be held Nov. 15-17 at the Marriott Denver Tech Center,. Speakers include Louisiana Area Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey and the Rev. Jorge Acevedo, senior pastor of the multicampus Grace Church in Southwest Florida. To register and learn more, click here: Details.
Youth mission opportunities: Harvest of Hope has mission event openings this summer for middle school and high school youth groups. Harvest of Hope is the ecumenical study, worship and gleaning program of the Society of St. Andrew, a United Methodist partner. Events provide participants the opportunity to learn about hunger and to experience first-hand a common-sense solution to the problem: gleaning. Learn more.
Young people needed for Hurricane Sandy relief: United Methodist youth and young adults are invited to join a two-year effort to help rebuild areas ravaged by Hurricane Sandy. Restoration Generation will begin this summer, said Michael Ratliff, who leads the Young People’s Ministries division of the United Methodist Board of Discipleship. A team of five young adults will establish an intentional living community for the coming two years to coordinate the initiative. The team will be led by the Rev. Hannah Adair Bonner, who works part time for Young People’s Ministries in the Northeastern Jurisdiction. Read news release. The initiative ministry has launched a new website with information about how to get involved in the ministry. Learn more.
Rabbi’s study group: The Rabbi's class meets each Thursday at 1 p.m. in the BWC library. The study is from the sayings and thinking of the rabbis from Jesus' time, their wisdom relevent for Christians today. No background necessary. All are welcome each week or for one session only. Bring a bag lunch if you wish.
FREE WEBINARS: The General Board of Discipleship sponsors many opportunities for learning through free webinars. No charge must register. The next ones offered are:
- June 20 - “The New Senior: Boomers,” 6:30 p.m. CT, tips on ministering to this large generation. To register.
FILLING UP FAST - Early Childhood Educators Conference: Registration is open for the Early Childhood Educators Conference, to be held Aug. 15 at Calvary UMC , 403 S. Main St. in Mt. Airy. The theme will be F.R.O.G., "Fully Rely on God." The speaker will be the Rev. Laurie Tingley, pastor of Mays Chapel UMC in Timonium. The cost is $50 per person, includes lunch and all workshop materials. To register, go to www.bwcumc.org and click on the conference under “events.”
DVDs on Generosity Conference: Bring the best of the “Fostering a Culture of Generosity” Conference presentations and workshops home to your church. The resource includes videos, narrated presentations, outlines of key points, and supplementary materials to help you foster a culture of generosity. Learn more and order today.
VBS Mission program: The Society of St. Andrew is offering a free VBS mission program, “Superheroes of the Faith”,designed to be used either as a stand-alone program or as a mission emphasis to compliment the regular Vacation Bible School program. Includes lesson plans, crafts, activities, Bible stories. Free download and all details can be found at www.endhunger.org/vbs.htm. Or contact the Rev. Jennifer Vestal Moore at 800-333-4597; email church@endhunger.org
HEADS UP – SCD satellite streaming at St. Paul UMC, Oxon Hill: The School of Congregational Development will be held Aug. 15-18 at the Denver Marriott Tech Center. The theme is “Encountering God at the Edge.” It is sponsored by the United Methodist Board of Discipleship, Path1 and the Board of Global Ministries. Several satellite sites will stream the conference live. Time in Eastern Time Zone is 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Registration is $49, half of which Oxon Hill UMC as the NEJ host, will receive. GBGM also offers scholarships. To learn more and register, click here: Details.
Education anytime, anywhere: UMC CyberCampus is a new online resource to connect individuals and churches with some of the best learning opportunities across the denomination, the brain child of the Rev. HiRho Park, a BWC pastor serving at the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry. Cyber Campus is designed to provide high quality, church-related materials as well as lectures about theological subjects. To learn more, email clergylifelonglearning@gbhem.org or call 615-340-7432.
Sound Theology: UMCommunications is offering a web based resource for listening to historical thoughts and assertions about religious faith, practice and experience – real voices of people of the church speaking, preaching, teaching, and at work in the world. Drop by SoundTheology.org where you can search more than 750 programs by name, title, subject, faith group, original institution, and key words. Listen any time – desktop, tablet, or mobile. No cost to listen.
Know your church: “Chuck Knows Church” is a weekly online video series that interprets objects, symbols and terms used in church for anyone – longtime members or newcomers. May be used in confirmation classes, youth groups, worship teams or Sunday school classes. To learn more and view a sample, go to www.ChuckKnowsChurch.com.
Social Principles bulletin inserts available: The General Board of Church & Society (GBCS) has developed bulletin inserts featuring individual United Methodist Social Principles. The resource can be downloaded for free from the agency’s website. The inserts highlight positions approved by the denomination’s highest policy-making body, the General Conference, on issues such as abortion, immigrants, health care, religious minorities, racism and children’s rights. The inserts are available in Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) format and can easily be replicated. If you need an insert on a particular subject that has not been prepared yet, one will be developed at your request and added to the website. Make your request via email to Wayne Rhodes or call 202-488-5630. For more information contact the Rev. Neal Christie, assistant general secretary, Education & Leadership Formation, at 202-488-5611.
Study guide on Hunger Report: Bread for the World Institute offers a Christian study guide for engaging congregations and small groups in conversations about its 2012 Hunger Report, Rebalancing Act: Updating U.S. Food & Farm Policies. “It is important that people of faith talk about how changes to U.S. food and farm policies will impact hungry and poor people around the world,” said Carter Echols, interim director of church relations at Bread for the World. The study guide features six small-group sessions designed to facilitate discussion and action based on the report. Each session includes a biblical reflection and questions; a summary of the report’s themes; discussion questions; activities; and an invitation to pray. To see the study guide. go to: http://www.hungerreport.org/2012/study-guide.
Resources for Social Justice Ministries: The General Board of Church & Society launched last August a series of resources relevant to common celebrations and awareness initiatives to help build and strengthen a community committed to justice. View the monthly lineup at Themes & Resources. Developed by the United Methodist Board of Discipleship. No charge, but to register, visit www.gbod.org/webinarsand scroll toward the bottom of the webpage. If links above don’t work, go to http://action.umc-gbcs.org/seeking-justice.
Parish nursing scholarships: Scholarships of up to $1,000 per applicant are being offered by the Baltimore-Washington Conference to licensed registered nurses to complete a minimum of 34 hours continuing education in Faith Community/Parish Nurse Basic Preparation Program. Support through scholarships is intended to increase the number of dedicated faith community/parish nurses. Learn more.
Church leadership resources: Leading Ideas is a publication of the Lewis Center on Church Leadership at Wesley Theological Seminary. It is available free and offers resources for “effective, faithful, and fruitful practice of Christian leadership” for both clergy and laity. To learn more click here.
Rethink immigration: Rethink Church will help you to rethink immigration by offering a free package of materials to use in many different ways. The package features a 12-minute video about Jasmine, a Michigan teen who found solace in The United Methodist Church when the complications of immigration left her alone. Also included are bulletin graphics, promotional poster designs and newspaper ads to help advertise to the community. In addition, the package features supplementary resources including videos to use all year in Sunday school or in worship as sermon illustrations, study material for Sunday schools or neighborhood Bible studies, and informational pieces to help jump-start a new understanding of immigration. A DVD is available for the cost of shipping.
Two opportunities-Russia VIM: Two teams of Volunteers in Mission will go to Camp Kristol in Veronezh, Russia, this summer. Additional volunteers are welcome. One team is for July 18-28, the other is for Aug. 29-Sept.9. Both will work on bringing the camp kitchen up to commercial standards. For the July team, contact Susan Headley, russiavim@gmail.comor Trinity UMC in Prince Frederick. The second team contact is Libby Horn, russiavim@gmail.comor Bel Air UMC. To make donations to the project, go to www.RussiaVIM.org.
Zimbabwe Mission Journey: The conference is sponsoring a mission trip to Zimbabwe as part of its 15-year partnership between the BWC and Zimbabwe UMC conferences. The trip is July 12 to 24. Clergy will participate in the ninth pastors’ school. There will be opportunities for participants to engage in mission projects in schools, churches, orphanages and communities. Registration is closed. To learn more contact Pam Bowen at pbowen@bwcumc.org or visit www.bwcumc.org/Zimbabwe2013.
Missionaries sought for Latin America and the Caribbean: United MethodistGlobal Ministries seeks missionaries to serve within the global Methodist connection in a variety of roles and ministries around the world, specifically in Latin America and the Caribbean. Missionaries vary in age, trade-skills and occupations. For more information about missionary service or to apply online, visit Global Ministries’ website: www.umcmission.org/calledtoserve. If interested and to learn more, contact Daniel Randall at drandall@umcmission.org.
Volunteers needed in New Jersey: The Greater New Jersey Annual Conference, which was hit hard by Hurricane Sandy, has moved from relief efforts and entered a new phase of long-term disaster recovery. More than 15,000 volunteers will be sought in the coming months to repair between 300 and 500 homes of low income, elderly and disabled individuals. Registration for work teamsopens March 15.
VIM team to Holy Land: Twice a year Janet Lahr Lewis, Methodist Liaison in Palestine and Israel, and colleagues host an “open” Volunteer in Mission team. This means that anyone from any area is welcome to participate in this special trip that combines spiritual visits to holy sites, educational meetings with partner organizations and a service project with one or more of partner groups. The fall VIM trip will be Sept. 21 to Oct. 4, flying from JFK Airport. Cost is $3300 ($500 more for single occupancy), covering roundtrip airfare, accommodations, internal transportation, guides, entrance fees, full board, honoraria for speakers, tips and donations to the work project. For more information, and a brochure, contact Elias@grace-tours.comor Admin@methodist-jer.com.
ERT teams needed on Eastern Shore: Additional homes needing ERT cleanup as a result of Hurricane Sandy have recently been identified in Crisfield, MD. The Pen-Del conference Disaster Response team is requesting ERT teams to assist. These are in addition to the rebuilding teams that are responding. To volunteer your ERT certified team, please email: umcorteamcrisfield@comcast.net.
Teams needed for Sandy relief: Volunteers needed for Sandy relief: United Methodists are continuing to contribute both money and volunteer time to the denomination’s relief efforts for those affected by Hurricane Sandy. Long-term recovery volunteer teams for Sandy can now register for work through the New York Conference: Five sites open, and Greater New Jersey Conference: Nine sites open, register online. Other opportunities are also available. To learn more: Read story and post comment.
Responding to West, Texas, disaster: The Rev. Laraine Waughtal of the Central Texas Conference, says: “First thanks to all for prayers and offers of help in light of this terrible disaster in West, Texas. We are not yet to the time when volunteers will be invited to help in the recovery. We … are still in the search and recovery mode. Assessments and interviews will need to be completed before we can determine what help will be needed. In the meantime, prayers are always appreciated, and UMCOR is requesting cleaning buckets and health kits.” Financial giving should be to Advance Special #901670. UMCOR also requests people help by donating blood at a local center. Relief kits can be shipped to any of the eight depots in the UMCOR Relief-Supply Network. For information on making kits, click here: http://www.umcor.org/UMCOR/Relief-Supplies. For information, Read news release.
UMVIM NEJ Coordinator job opening: The Board of Directors of the Northeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church is seeking a United Methodist Volunteers In Mission Coordinator, someone who is a dynamic person with a love of Jesus Christ and a passion for mission. The job is to coordinate the short term mission efforts of the 10 annual conferences that comprise the Northeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church. (Click here to see more...) Applications accepted to May 31.
Respond to the Sandy disaster: The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is offering several ways for people to donate in response to Superstorm Sandy.
• Donate online to UMCOR Advance #3021787.
• Text the word RESPONSE to 80888 to give an immediate $10 donation.
• Call 1-800-554-8583 between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. Eastern time to donate by phone.
• Mail a check payable to UMCOR with Advance #3021787 in the memo line, and send it to P.O. Box 9068, New York, NY 10087 or place it in the offering plate at any United Methodist church. For more information, click here.
Thailand VIM/Vision Trip:: The jurisdictional trip will take place July 5 through July 21 and will include Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Work in the Bangkok UMC will be to remodel the existing structure, including painting, light carpentry, building benches and moving the sanctuary from the first to the third floor. In Chiang Mai the group will work with the children at Angel’s Haven, an HIV/AIDS orphanage run by UMC missionaries, Gary and Cindy Moon. In both places there will be time for Bible study, possibly assisting in Vacation Bible School/English School, fellowship and teaching to build community between the Thai congregations and us. Food and lodging will be in clean, reasonably-priced hotels with air conditioning. Bottled water will be provided. July in Thailand is the last month of summer and it will be hot and humid. Estimated cost is between $3300 and $3500 depending on number of participants. Group will meet at JFK airport in New York and costs do not cover that travel, nor immunizations or passport. For information, contact Karen Weiss at thailandimt@gmail.com or P.O. Box 114, Centre Hall, PA 16828. A $500 deposit is required upon acceptance..
Vehicle Donation Program: Susanna Wesley Hourse, Inc., offers a highly specialized program where you can donate a car, truck, trailer, recreational vehicle, boat, etc., toward support of the nonprofit charitable organization that serves homeless women and their children in Baltimore. Free vehicle pickup, whether running or not. Gifts are tax deductible. To learn more, go to www.susannawesley.org and click “Wheels for Susanna Wesley.”
UMCOR Kits are needed: St. Matthew’s Disaster Response/Outreach HUB in Bowie is collecting UMCOR Cleaning Buckets, Health Kits and/or supplies for both types of kits in support of relief efforts for “Superstorm Sandy”. Please invite your church to pitch in and lend a hand in making kits or purchasing bulk items needed for kits. Deliveries can be made to: St Matthew’s UMC, 14900 Annapolis Road, Bowie by contacting Irene Schneider at 301-262-4691 or 301-802-8263; email bischneider@comcast.net, or Bob Fuller at 202-498-0567 or email: fullerbob432@aol.com . Kits can also be dropped off on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the new Bentley Springs Hub at 419 Bentley Road in Parkton. Contact HUB Coordinator Fred Sipes, 410-967-9134 andfred@msn.com,. Pick up of large quantities can be arranged by St. Matthew’s Disaster Response/Outreach HUB by calling ahead of needed pick up date. Details concerning kit contents can be found on the Mission Central website www.missioncentral.org or St. Matthew’s UMC website at www.stmatthews-bowie.org/missions/disaster-response-outreach. If you are interested in assembling kits, and/or working at the Bowie-HUB, contact Irene Schneider or Bob Fuller.
Mission opportunities in New Jersey: Greater New Jersey is ready to receive ERTs. Must be self-sustaining groups. Eight Churches will be host sites and provide housing but you must do your own meals and be ready for flexible conditions. The work will be a door to door cleanup in some of the areas. To receive a location and confirmed dates, send email with name and contact info, church, Annual Conference, team size, and dates available to: DisasterResponse@gnjumc.org. A representative of the GNJ conference disaster team will contact you.
Volunteers alert: The Louisiana Conference is appealing for volunteer disaster response teams to help them in the enormous clean up in the wake of Hurricane Isaac. To date, more than 18,500 health kits and 6,000 cleaning buckets have been distributed in the storm affected areas of Louisiana. It is estimated that 178,000 homes suffered some degree of damage from Isaac’s winds, rain and flood waters. In addition 15 churches in the Louisiana Conference are dealing with damages. The Louisiana disaster response ministry will begin its work in the LaPlace and Maurepas areas in hard hit St. John the Baptist and Livingston parishes. Volunteer to serve on a disaster response team by visiting http://www.la-umc.org/pages/detail/1761. Financial help can be channeled through UMCOR Advance #901670 and specify Hurricnes 2012.
‘Advance’ ministries include three in BWC: The Advance, a second mile giving program for special United Methodist Ministries, has approved three area ministries as official projects for the 2013-2016 quadrennium. They include Christ House Medical Services(#381215), Appalachian Regional Ministries(#982041) and Appalachia Hunger and Poverty(#982039). Learn more about Advance Specialsand how you can give.
Mississippi appeals for VIM teams: The Mississippi Annual Conference is ready to receive early response teams for 50 sites in Jackson County with an additional 18 sites needing tarping. The teams that deploy should review mold remediation and bring tools with those tasks in mind.For more information, contact the Rev. Wayne Napier at 228-216-2560 or wbnapier@live.com. For more details, see How to volunteer.
Volunteer medical teams for Haiti: United Methodist volunteer medical teams are now welcome to schedule mission service in Haiti. Some restrictions apply. Medical teams of 2-6 volunteers will work with the denomination’s existing partner health programs in the Port-au-Prince area. All medical personnel serving on a team will be required to raise at least $100 per day, per person, to offset costs. And all team members must submit medical licenses to the UMVIM office in Haiti at least 120 days before the scheduled mission trip. The clinics and hospitals where team members will be assigned have no dental or ophthalmic infrastructure. Anyone interested in forming a medical team can contact Susan Meister at haitivolunteers@yahoo.com. She will work with the team leader to match the team skills with the need in Haiti and be the liaison to the office in Haiti. More information»
Two sites for UMCOR kits: UMCOR kits, which churches make and assemble, are used in disasters (such as floods, hurricanes, tornados and earthquakes) and for long term follow up of disasters. They are sent or taken to Mission Central in Pennsylvania. Now, they may be delivered to two sites in Maryland. The kits can be dropped off on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the new Bentley Springs Hub at 419 Bentley Road in Parkton or at St. Matthews UMC, 14900 Annapolis Road in Bowie. Call the church, 301-262-1408, for times to deliver them. Kit assembly and delivery instructions can be found at http://www.stmatthews-bowie.org/ under Missions/St. Matthew's Disaster Response/Outreach HUB. Check for delivery times at 301-262-4691 (Irene Schneider) or e-mail missions@stmatthews-bowie.org. Groups may wish to deliver kits and spend a day or part of a day volunteering. For more information about visiting, volunteering and other kinds of kits and supplies needed, visit : www.missioncentral.org.
Classifieds can now be found at UMSocial by clicking here.
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Send e-connection subscription requests and changes of e-mail addresses and submit items of interest to Kayla Spears at kspears@bwcumc.org or call 800-492-2525, Ext. 420. To be considered, items must be submitted by 5 p.m. Wednesdays.
If you would like to add church council members, staff and other leaders to the e-connection mailing list, send all addresses, first and last names, church and position to mlauber@bwcumc.org.
Heritage Sunday: General Conference designates May 24, Aldersgate Day, or the Sunday preceding that day, May 19, as a time to celebrate our Methodist heritage. May 24, 1738, was when John Wesley’s “heartwarming experience” occurred. Resources are available from the United Methodist Commission on Archives and History or for information about thehistory of the day and resources to help, go to http://www.gcah.org/site/c.ghKJI0PHIoE/b.3521055/.
