First Connections | June 2023

New Horizons: Welcoming Our New Senior Pastor

We are excited to announce that Rev. Charley Reeb has been appointed as our next Senior Pastor. His first Sunday will be July 9, 2023.

A Short Note

It was a good day for me and for First United Methodist Church in Lakeland when the Bishop appointed Rev. Charley Reeb to be one of the associate pastors at our church. Charley joined me and Rev. Tom McCloskey to make up the ministerial team. It was not only a good team, but we also worked well together and had a lot of fun doing it. One of those years, we also had Rev. Alex Shanks join us as a ministerial intern. With a team like that, everything went so well and easy. Each complemented the other with our various gifts and graces.

Charley was the “Kid Preacher,” having just graduated from seminary and newly married. Alex was “The Boy Wonder” with long hair and a guitar. Tom was the “Older Brother,” and I was “Big Daddy.” I learned that I did not have to tell them what to do or how to do it - they were so talented. All I had to do was to stay out of their way.

Charley and I moved out of First Lakeland in the same year. He was moved to a church in Orlando, and I retired. Several years later, he was moved to Pasadena Community Church in St. Petersburg (at one time “The Pulpit Church” of Methodism). Some years later, Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson asked for him to be loaned to the North Georgia Conference to serve Johns Creek United

Methodist Church. Johns Creek is in a fastgrowing area on the outskirts of Atlanta and, under Rev. Reeb’s guidance, became one of the largest and fastest-growing churches in Georgia.

Earlier this year, Bishop Berlin appointed Charley Reeb to be our pastor. He is coming home, bringing his wife Brandy and his son Paul to join us in our effort to serve Christ in Lakeland and around the world. He is not a stranger to many of our congregation. As a graduate of Florida Southern, he is familiar with our community, our traditions, and our values. His excitement, preaching, and devotion to Jesus are contagious. His laughter shall echo in our sanctuary, and his sermons in our hearts and souls.

We welcome the Reeb family back to our family and pray that they will bless us and be blessed by the Holy Spirit. It is a new day and a good day at First United Methodist Church of Lakeland. I can see the sun rising.

Rev. Riley P. Short

Renewed Space, Renewed Faith: Celebrating the Transformation of our Youth and Community Outreach Center

We are excited to share the news about the upcoming completion of our Youth and Community Outreach Center renovation. This transformative project isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about unleashing love and empowering the next generation to live for Jesus.

In Matthew 19:14 (paraphrased), Jesus said, “Hey, bring those kids over here! Don’t hold them back! God’s Kingdom is all about these little heroes.”

Our Youth and Outreach Center is a space where these kids can experience the transforming power of God’s love, explore their faith, and discover the beautiful, messy, thrilling life Jesus has in store for them.

Let’s thank God for what he is doing in our church! As we begin this next season of ministry, we’re stepping into a space where faith ignites, and love propels us forward. Together, we’ll embrace the next generation, empower them to chase their wildest dreams, and create a community where love is our anthem.

Beyond the Storm: Hope in the Wake of Hurricane Ian

Forrest White (Missions Director)

Under a shade tree in her backyard, the Hurricane Ian survivor undertook the task she had been putting off for seven months since the massive storm flooded her home in St. James City.

Many of the papers spread out before her were molded together from the flood waters.

“This is the part I’ve dreaded the most,” she said. “I was hoping another hurricane would come along and blow it all away.”

With that she began.

There were crayon drawings done by her three children in elementary school. Ruined. Important family papers. Barely legible. Letters and cards saved through the years, the ink smeared as if from a thousand tears. Her mother’s death certificate. Her father’s retirement papers.

There were three piles at her feet – one to throw away, one she deemed “important” to burn, one to keep.

I sat there in silence. What words could possibly ease such pain?

I met her only a few hours earlier, having traveled to Pine Island in late April with others from First United to serve in this storm ravaged area.

I was in Nashville the weekend before when a call came from Jill Hockin, a staff member with the Florida Conference Disaster Recovery Ministry.

“We wanted to know if your team would consider a case,” she said.

I told her I didn’t need any details. My response was automatic. Yes.

As servants we should follow the example set by Isaiah in the story of his commissioning.

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’” (Isaiah 6:8)

He didn’t ask for details. He simply trusted God to work through him and made himself available.

Jill told me a bit of the survivor’s story. (In disaster recovery, names are kept confidential. That’s why I’m not sharing hers.) Once there, I found out much more.

She has been living in a donated RV on her property since Ian strayed from his trek toward Tampa Bay and took a turn toward her. There are two trailers and a shed in her yard as well, storing items until the house can be repaired. Some things were piled up outside, too, covered by blue tarps.

She was overwhelmed by the daunting task of letting go, still holding on to things ruined by the storm surge. Trash to neighbors who complained. Treasures to her. The county issued a code violation. If something wasn’t done soon, she would be fined.

But that’s only a part of the reason we were asked to help.

She was deeply depressed. Her disaster case manager was concerned.

Our team spoke the night before about some of the guiding principles in disaster response:

· We go above all to provide a caring presence, to show Christian love in action as John the Apostle (I John 3:18) urged. No task was more important than being with survivors, listening to their stories of great loss.

· You don’t throw anything away without permission. Storm survivors have had so much taken from them. You always let them decide what to keep. With each choice they make, survivors regain a bit of control, a small step in their healing journey.

· Take a gift if offered. If it’s money you may donate it. But let them give. Survivors often want desperately to give not simply receive. And it is always easier to serve than to be served.

Over the course of our time together, we heard stories about the life our 69-year-old new friend lived before the storm and after.

We also met her 31-year-old son, whom God used to speak clearly to me. We hadn’t seen him on Friday. On Saturday morning, shortly after we arrived, his mom woke him up. He got in his truck and left in a hurry, blowing past a Disaster Recovery staff member who wanted to chat about all that was left to be done.

Even though I hate it when people make assumptions about me, I made an assumption about him, that he wasn’t interested in helping and was a part of the problem.

When I returned from digging a trench at another worksite, drenched in sweat, I actually met the young man.

With each passing moment in his presence I felt worse and worse about my assumption.

He asked questions about our faith. He worked to clean up the garage. He give our team members small gifts. He told me about his job as a fence builder. He thanked us for coming. He asked what I do for a living, listened intently, and then said this, “When the next big (hurricane) comes I would like to go help.”

By then I was feeling about as small as a guy my size can feel. It was as if God was saying to me, “So, you hate it when people assume the worst about you and that’s what you did, without getting to know him, without remembering all he had been through.”

Shame. On. Me. Ugh.

In the end, when we left for home on Saturday afternoon, I believe we left mom and son better than we found them and, as always, we were better, too, because of them and what they shared with us.

As our departure neared, the mom gave me a really cool set of coasters pressed out of aluminum and a small, matching bowl.

It made her happy to give.

“I would be honored to have this,” I told her.

Our team was honored, too, to have been a part of her journey, to have answered the call as Isaiah did by saying, “Here am I. Send me!”

Join us on a Hurricane Ian recovery team in the fall. We will send a team led by Susan Ehrhart, Early Response Team leader, October 12-14 and one led by Forrest White, Director of Missions, November 9-11. Both teams will leave on Thursday afternoon, work full days Friday and Saturday and return to First United late Saturday. For information contact Forrest at fwhite@firstumc.org.

Making a Difference: Our Giving Tree Volunteers Give Back

Carol Marsh

Recently, our Giving Tree volunteers gathered for a celebration and meeting. With over 30 individuals volunteering in various capacities for the store, we are grateful for their contributions, although more volunteers are always welcome! During the event, a budget report was presented, revealing that we had $3,000 available to allocate to mission projects supported by our church. Each volunteer received a “menu” of missions and a “blank check” worth $100, allowing them to choose a mission to support.

This unique opportunity allowed our volunteers to truly understand the impact of their work. The dedication and effort put forth by these individuals have played a significant role in the prosperity of our store. The products available at Our Giving Tree come from vendors who actively assist artisans and workers in overcoming challenging life situations, spanning from Denver, Colorado to Kenya in Africa. Moreover, these products are not only ethically sourced but also aesthetically pleasing.

In addition to our collaboration with the Creation Care Ministry, Our Giving Tree has partnered with them to offer beautiful plants for sale. All proceeds from these plants contribute to our church’s efforts to reduce the usage of styrofoam cups and containers, as well as support other projects aimed at nurturing our planet, a responsibility we believe God has entrusted us with.

If you are interested in joining our team of dedicated volunteers at Our Giving Tree, we provide comprehensive information and training to accommodate various skill levels. No matter your capabilities, there is always something you can contribute! We particularly require assistance on Sunday mornings and Wednesday afternoons/evenings. To explore whether this volunteering opportunity aligns with your interests and availability, please reach out to our bookstore managers, Carol Marsh or Barbara Cavanah. You can contact them at (863) 732-7333 or bookstore@firstumc.org.

Welcome Back, Charley!

Twenty-four years ago feels like a lifetime ago! Back then, Charley had just graduated from seminary, and it was evident that this young man was head over heels in love with his brand new bride, Brandy. Family held a special place in Charley’s heart, and he spoke fondly of his mother and sisters. He also cherished the memory of his father, who passed away when Charley was just a young boy. Brandy, a top-notch tennis player, and Charley, an avid golfer, enjoyed pursuing their favorite sports together.

Even back then, Charley’s passion for preaching was palpable. He possessed a unique gift for transforming life experiences into sermons that resonated with each one of us. During his time at First Lakeland, he authored his first book, “One Heaven of a Party,” and has since written several more over the past 20 years.

Those of us who have been part of this faith community since Charley’s earlier years have been approached by new staff and congregation members, eager to learn about Charley. One thing both longtime members and newcomers quickly discover is that you always know when Charley is around! His infectious laughter and uplifting personality have a way of making everyone feel better. We are truly in for a treat as we enter this new season of ministry.

Welcome back, Charley, Brandy, and Paul! Your former staff are thrilled to have you home.

Warmly, Former Staff

Lea Ellen Dewitt

Harriet Mayes

Maggie Trask

Upcoming Events

For more information about all of our events, visit firstumc.org/events.

Upcoming Events

For more information about all of our events, visit firstumc.org/events.

Summer Park Hopper Fun - July 9, 5-7pm

Grab your dinner and join us at Dobbins Park for an exciting evening of family fun. Families with children of all ages are invited to join us on Sunday, July 9, from 5-7 pm for a summer filled with park-hopping adventures. *weather permitting*

Name That Tune Night - July 19, 5-6:30pm

Discover your inner music guru at “Name That Tune”! Challenge your musical prowess, guess the songs, and have a blast. Open to all ages. Supper available from 5-6 pm at our Fellowship Center: $8 for adults, $4 for kids. Join us for a night of music and excitement!

Bingo Night - August 2, 5-6:30pm

Join us for an exciting night of Bingo on Wednesday, August 2! Enjoy a delicious supper from 5-6 pm at the Fellowship Center. $8 for adults, $4 for children 12 and under. No reservations needed. Bring your friends and family for a fun-filled evening of Bingo!

Puzzle Night - July 19, 5-6:30pm

Come join us for a fun Puzzle Night. Bring your friends or make new ones and enjoy fun puzzle-themed activities and games. Supper is served from 5-6 pm in our Fellowship Center. Supper is $8 for adults (13 and up), $4 for children 12 and under.

Summer Park Hopper Fun - July 23, 5-7pm

It’s time to pack your dinner and head to the great outdoors! Families with children of all ages are welcome to join us at Rotary Playground At Hernandos Landing at Lake Parker Park for a summer of park-hopping adventures.

First United Methodist Church

72 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland, FL 33801 firstumc.org | 863.686.3163

SUNDAY SERVICES

8:15am Sanctuary Service: Traditional worship presented in a new way with a fresh approach to time-honored hymns and a variety of styles of music.

9:30am Fellowship Center: A more contemporary, relaxed atmosphere with worship music of today.

11am Sanctuary Service: Traditional hymns with organ accompaniment, as well as musical pieces from our various fine arts groups.

11am The Current: A unique worship experience in our Fellowship Center with a contemporary setting. Communion is offered each Sunday.

The purpose of First United Methodist is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. We strive to accomplish this by being a worship plus three church. Worship plus three is how we define our ministries. We believe worship is of prime importance and is our foundation. In addition, we are to invite others into a relationship with God, grow in our own relationship with God and our neighbor and serve others as a continued sign of God’s work in our lives.