Joining Hands Magazine by East Ohio Conference

East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church SPRING 2012 | Volume 12 | Issue 3

joiningâ&#x20AC;&#x2030;hands east ohio

- informed, inspired and in touch.

Planting the Seed The Vision of the East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church is to make and mature disciples of Jesus Christ.

Spring 2012

Rooted in Christ

East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church Office of Communications

By Rick Wolcott*

Editor/Director of Communications Rick Wolcott wolcott@eocumc.com

he unusually warm, relatively snow-free winter meant spring came a little earlier this year. The grass is again bright green, flowers of all colors accentuate the landscape and buds are beginning to emerge on branches. This is a stark contrast to just a few months ago when the trees were bare and the ground was more gray than green. The beauty we see is the result of something happening below the surface. The roots of trees and plants absorb nutrients and grow away from the trunk or stem. The expanded root structure provides for a wider area in which the tree can feed and offers improved stability against storms. All of which ensures a longer life. The same can be said for the life of the church. Many of us began our church life in Sunday school, hearing for the first time the parables taught by Jesus. Often times our teachers used brightly colored drawings and workbooks to reinforce the stories in our young minds. The seed had been planted. As we grew, so did our knowledge of the Bible. What started out as a story in its simplest form took on even more meaning as details were added over the years. Our seed had taken root and as it reached out for nourishment its network grew wider. We transitioned from Sunday school to youth group, which prepared us for young adult Bible study and then Discipleship class. This issue of Joining Hands is dedicated to Christian education. The magazine highlights creative youth ministries and innovative cross-generational studies and includes testimonies of how Sunday school as a child impacts our life as adults. Each page introduces you to outstanding East Ohio Methodists who are impacting lives in their individual communities and across our conference. Of course the copy in your hands is just the beginning. Please visit us at www.eocumc.com/joininghands for the expanded online edition. There you will find extended stories and additional content as we continue to expand our root structure.

*Rick Wolcott is the Director of Communications for the East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church.

east ohio joining hands

spring 2012

Vol. 12 No. 3

Graphic Designer Sue Zakovec sue@eocumc.com Subscriptions/Administrative Lois Speelman lois@eocumc.com Under the direction of: The Conference Board of Communications, Rev. Steve Bailey, Chairman Mail: Editor East Ohio Joining Hands 8800 Cleveland Ave. N.W. North Canton, Ohio 44720 Phone: ext. ext. ext.

800.831.3972 118 Editor 105 Graphic Designer 119 Subscriptions

Web site: www.eocumc.com Submission of articles is encouraged. The deadline is May 21 for the Summer 2012 issue. Our theme is “Adapting to Change” East Ohio Joining Hands USPS (005-882) is published quarterly by the East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church, Office of Communications, 8800 Cleveland Ave. N.W., North Canton, Ohio 44720. Periodical Postage paid at Canton, Ohio. Postmaster: Send address corrections to: East Ohio Joining Hands 8800 Cleveland Ave. N.W. North Canton, Ohio 44720

East Ohio Joining Hands

Lenten Study for All Ages

he 4-year-old came home from Sunday school, pulled out her Little People toys and carefully lined them up in two rows on the carpet. She placed the “Jesus” figure on top of a hippo and then re-enacted Palm Sunday for her mother. “I think she got it,” her mom said. This year Mayfield United Methodist Church (Western Reserve District) in Chesterland is bridging the gap between children’s and adult curriculum through its congregation-wide Lenten study of “24 Hours That Changed the World” by the Rev. Adam Hamilton. The adult book and youth study examine the last 24 hours of Jesus’ life; the corresponding children’s curriculum uses a slightly different time frame. Each Sunday, the teaching pastor focuses on a chapter of the “24 hours” book. Then our children’s Sunday school, youth group and adult connection groups (LifeGroups) explore the curriculum and accompanying video. These meetings are held at our church, at Redeemer United Methodist Church (North Coast District) in Cleveland Heights, in homes and restaurants and at a retirement community. While this is not the first congregational study for Mayfield, it is the first in memory to include children and youth. That is significant, according to Megann Nyman, director of children’s ministries. “Our kids are getting to connect with both their church family and with Jesus Christ on a whole new level. “Children, and most adults, learn best and retain the most when they get to see, touch, hear, smell and taste things. Experiences that use as many of these senses as

By Rev. Jan Fillmore*

possible help children to hold on to what they learn and connect with it on a personal level. With this curriculum, kids play games, do crafts, see plays, and even eat foods from the period. It teaches the way Jesus taught: through experiences people can relate to,” Nyman said. Youth and adults, alike, have enjoyed experiencing the Seder plate, tasting unusual foods, such as figs and dates, and learning new information while viewing video of the Holy Land. “During the first week,” says the Rev. Bruce Becker, pastor of youth and young adults, “there was a realization about many

Bible stories when we got to see how people sat at the [Last Supper] table with feet behind. There was talk about the Bible’s stories of foot washing and when Mary anointed Jesus’ feet.” The study kicked off Feb. 26 with a “Living Last Supper” at all three worship services. Thirteen men from Mayfield UMC portrayed Jesus and the disciples for the message portion of the service. The congregation learned the background of each disciple and that it is believed only one disciple – John – died a natural death. Joyce Gordon, facilitator of the Seekers LifeGroup that meets on Sunday morning, says the study evokes much discussion.

“The first class [Last Supper], we talked a lot about our experiences with Communion as a child and now. The second class [Garden of Gethsemane], we spoke about ways we have betrayed Jesus or have not always ‘defended the Christian beliefs in the workplace.’ There also was a great deal of talk about Jesus being fully human and fully divine and what that meant about his ‘choice,’ his free will and his pre-knowledge of the Crucifixion.” While the “24 Hours” study is designed for small groups or a congregation, it has had an added benefit for Mayfield: outreach. Members of various LifeGroups have invited friends who do not attend Mayfield to be part of their group. The MPG (Men Praying to God) Life Group meets at a coffee shop on Saturday mornings. The eight men, four of whom are not connected to Mayfield, “meet, pray, talk, pray, look at Scripture and discuss a little,” says facilitator Bob Olbrysh. “We just began the ‘24 Hours’ study; some [of the men] have been in book studies and said, ‘It’s the best way to connect.’ ” Mayfield’s lead pastor, the Rev. Scott Wilson, agrees. “LifeGroups are where life change occurs,” he says. “I’ve found through the years that people aren’t just looking to embrace faith, but they’re also looking for friends. “Because we’ve asked our entire congregation to focus on ‘24 Hours That Changed the World,’ it offers an easier pathway for members and visitors to begin the journey together.” *Rev. Jan Fillmore is associate pastor at Mayfield United Methodist Church.

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spring 2012

Flexibility is Key By Rev. Pamela Gable*

The mission statement of Lisbon First United Methodist Church (Mahoning Valley District) says that we will be “flexible and inclusive.” In the past year, we’ve lived that mission out in our approach to Christian Education. Our adult leaders have an eye on the needs of children and youth in the church family and in the broader community. They have been flexible to try different formats, settings and schedules, and intentional in planning learning opportunities that reach beyond our walls. *Rev. Pamela Gable is in her 4th year at Lisbon First United Methodist Church.

Children’s Christian Education isn’t just for Sundays! Three Lisbon First UMC members have committed to providing child care and learning opportunities every Tuesday evening from 7-8:30 pm while young parents are attending Narcotics Anonymous meetings at the church. Some families have both parents who attend the meetings. The volunteers provide snacks, games and videos and even offer to help with any homework the children bring. On average, there are eight children who come each week. Some of the children also participate in our summer VBS. We have been told by the NA group’s coordinator that this simple program makes it possible for parents to attend their recovery meetings more consistently, improving the likelihood of success. This is “lived” Christian education to show what Jesus’ love might look like “with skin on.” Mary Lee Vandevander, Volunteer

Youth Sunday School We took a different approach this year by introducing DVD materials, courtesy of the conference media center, to our class! Each DVD shows one of Jesus’ parables acted out in a modern setting. We watch the video, engage in a discussion of what the youth have seen and then we read the original parable from the Bible. The combination of seeing and reading makes the story come alive. It’s been a great way to not only have the class understand Scripture better, but also to show them how the Bible relates to real life today. This format has produced the highest level of classroom engagement that I have experienced with this group to date. The participation has been strong and steady throughout the year. In fact it’s growing! Eric Walker, Director of Youth Ministries

F.R.O.G. 4ever Club Fully Rely On God 4ever began in February as a way to introduce children to God and the church. Every Thursday we gather for an hour to share music, a Bible lesson, snacks, crafts and prayer. The program is offered to the community because some children do not know who God is, what a Bible lesson is or what takes place inside a church. By introducing the bare basics to children it is our hope and prayer that the children will return and encourage their parents, loved ones, family, friends and neighbors to come with them to Sunday services and perhaps eventually become a part of our church family. Jennifer Bouch, Program Coordinator

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spring 2012

It’s a Visual World * By Susan Arnold

*Susan Arnold is Media Center Administrator for the East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church.

We live in a digital age where videos, texts and e-mail can be delivered to hand-held devices, on demand, 24/7. Consider this: Our youth have never lived in a The media center offers the following world free of cell phones or laptops. Many adults forget what that tips when selecting a video: world was like, too. Our work and our leisure time are filled with screens – • Preview the video before showing on laptops, Smart phones, iPads, tablets and Kindles. it to a class or group Imagine if Jesus were your Sunday school teacher. How would he get his point • Be sure it is age appropriate so across today? the class is able to understand Notice, Jesus wouldn’t change his message, but he might change how he would say what it is seeing it to make his point in today’s world. People in the time of Jesus learned from seeing. They • Be aware of violence and witnessed Jesus curing the blind man, raising Lazarus from the dead and feeding the multitude. The world today is no different. We retain more when presented with visual material. Our brains even sexual content in some are made for it. Engaging our senses and our emotions during a Bible lesson results in us being Bible stories more invested in the story being told; the material becomes more relevant to us. This is not to sug• Pay attention to gest that the material can replace our teachers, but they can benefit from utilizing video to suppletheological differences ment their classroom teaching. All video is copyright Of course having the latest, greatest gadgets can be costly. The conference media center exists protected. Materials from so churches can have the most up-to-date teaching tools without having to break the bank. Churches the media center come with may join the media center for a small fee, based on the number of members in the congregation. public performance rights. Media center resources are primarily video-based. They can be used for personal and spiritual These videos may be shown growth, Bible study, Sunday school and small groups of any kind – including membership and conto groups without concern. firmation classes. Other offered materials cover topics including evangelism, leadership trainThe DVDs on your shelf at ing, youth, marriage, parenting and much more. home are licensed for home When selecting materials keep in mind that videos work best when they enhance a use only. lesson that the teacher has already introduced. This allows those in class to understand The media center also what they will see on screen. Discussing the video after the class has viewed it is carries a limited number of LCD essential because it allows the class time to ask questions and process the projectors, video screens and DVD material. players. You will find our searchable It’s also important to remember that not all videos are produced by catalog of resources on the East Ohio a United Methodist publishing house. Such videos may contain Conference web site, www.eocumc.com. theological differences. This presents a wonderful opportunity to discuss in class what we believe You may also call our office at 1-800-831as The United Methodist Church! 3972 ext. 139 for help in selecting resources. The media center is open weekdays from 8:30 am until 4:00 pm. You are welcome to come in to browse or pick out items.

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Concrete Disciples By Peter Chakerian*

“Skateboar

ding is not So goes th a crime e axiom of th a time wh e m id-1980s en mainstr — eam nam Hawk and e s like Ton Thrasher y magazine and ESPN weren’t ye ’s “X-Gam t, es” was s in a sports till a twink broadcaste le r’s eye. When Dave Cott rell beca director a me youth t Doylesto wn United Church (C M ethodist anal Distr ens.” ict), he witnessed ling happ repeatedly e b kids gettin la d a b t g kicked church pa Concrete ere all tha out of the rking lot fo sure the That’s wh s e k r skateboa a stown m sport of ch rding, the its Doyle Cottrell oice. d n o y e ir b ld trips” et out He didn’t rs on “fie te isciples g a exactly se D k s e crime, eith e that acti , taking th te parks. vity as a er — desp backyard ional ska g ctly re ite the tre r e private pro th o s is exa spassing o perty. of sorts to l of the Disciple n ommon nuisance — which date back to that midgoa What he s finding c t: c aw was an The e p x e ring a specificall ight 1980s heyday. opportunit and foste y, he saw at one m y r, . h M e w o th re o an untapp literally ro “You know, I’m 39 years old and when ith one ed missio lling thro ground w n I was their ugh his ith God. Cottrell and an op age, I did the same thing,” backyard tionship w ’s a message portunity la re — to reach yo communit Cottrell said. rally, it uth in the y. Natu ading. worth spre ls into the skate “I was into BMX bike freestyle [trick is He sugges s e v e li il be ted that D ssage sp where the UMC “me riding], which had the same connotations. “Our me y are an e I t . th id e a m s e d teach don’t they’re at” it,” h was one of them, not an outsider looking in. them whe skaters h rks we vis rather tha it a p w re s n n chase th atio t a lot His sugge Those kids were getting labeled because e kids off “Convers sults, bu stion: enli re l a u . it s ir t the skate s and sp skater-cen they were different. We did too back then rs in a new reach kid ays yield tric youth !” lw to a g , in g ry roup. faith in . T It wa he laughed. s an idea ing their them do w f ro o g t d n a that had wheels - a ing ficult, bu “There’s a baked-in kinship in thes legs - and lmost imm derstand n be dif e n a u c s ts id , n k e e diately. He p with onm kinds of spor ts; I thought, ‘There’s a way osted a ccess … ose envir u s th h h c g u u s o m ign with number in t as to add another layer of positive personal ven th his phon the lot. “C ere’s jus ive way e th it s ” o y, e p a a w a ll this num skate,” it s investment in an encouraging, supportiv t life in g their ber if you aid. e ity comin looking a v ti a g e n “It fe environment where they feel understood.’” ll this lt like an there’s a is opportunit kids right up for th A lot . of towns have basketball cour ts y. We ha here in o e said ramping h re of a d s e le u p r lot,” Co ho “They’re ri and baseball diamonds, but “there aren’t Discip ttrell said ght here. goal: the a The w e n . a I . thought, them insid with lot of places for skaters to do their thing oylestown ‘let’s get e.’” ,” summer park in D te rolling,” a The re k ll s a a adde b d Cottr g e ell. sponse in penin get th o to g s in p y ired Cottre Concrete e tr “So they go out and skate in public. ll to form Disciples, “We’r ut a DUMC sk group ente id. pe to c a s a ll teboarding ring its thir f red ta Cottre o t at lo re g d a season th summer. e a re’s is coming “The would b n t w a o th ir e t He sa bu s th w the gro through, these kid t a e th iv g u n p o to to attract as an opp focus to and retain e portunity ortunity ls p e o g church me to dispel s somethin mbers an ome of th place and d e troubles still assoc .” ome tabo iated with is positive os skaters — skater kid n a mely that s are troub lemakers and a pub lic *Peter Chakerian is a free-lance

.”

writer who has focused on arts, entertainment, business, features and religion during his 20-year career as a journalist.

east ohio joining hands

spring 2012

By Kaye Wolfinger*

hen we baptize in The United Methodist Church each of us in the congregation agrees to lead by example. We read aloud from the Baptismal Covenant in our hymnal for all to hear: “With God’s help we will proclaim the good news and live according to the example of Christ. We will surround these persons with a community of love and forgiveness, that they may grow in their trust of God, and be found faithful in their service to others. We will pray for them, that they may be true disciples who walk in the way that leads to life.” That is a big responsibility my friends! I grew up in a large United Methodist church in West Ohio. I can remember each Sunday school teacher, choir director and youth leader who had a major impact on my life. Those adults loved me, nurtured me and were examples of what it meant to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. Even though my Christian mother took me to church, I do believe that it was the investment in my life made by each of those adults that shaped me into who I am today. I am sure that most Christian adults can name at least one adult from their childhood who took an interest in their life. There have been several studies conducted to see at exactly what age Christians commit their lives to Christ. One of these studies was completed by The Barna Group. The report in an October 2008 article entitled “Evangelism is Most Effective Among Kids” stated that “nearly half of all Americans who accept Jesus Christ as their savior do so

before reaching the age of 13 (43%), and that two out of three born again Christians (64%) made that commitment to Christ before their 18th birthday. One out of eight born again people (13%) made their profession of faith while 18 to 21 years old. Less than one out of every four born again Christians (23%) embraced Christ after their 21st birthday.” I don’t know about you, but those numbers get me fired up! If that report doesn’t lay out the importance of Children and Youth Ministries, not much else will. If we are called to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world, then we need to start with our children ― in our homes, in our churches and in our communities. Jesus, himself, asked for the little children to come to Him. So, I encourage you to seek out the needs of the children, youth and families in your communities. We know they need Jesus, but are there physical or emotional needs your church can help them with first? If so, then you can let them know that the love you have to share comes from our Heavenly Father, who loves them too! We need to be sure we are laying a strong foundation in our churches for our children. In my travels across the conference I have witnessed wonderful ministries and met so many committed adult staff and volunteers who love our children. Each of those wonderful ministries could use more volunteers. I encourage you to invest in our children! You never grow too old to serve. *Kaye Wolfinger is Director, Youth Ministries for the East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church.

Unite!

Our Children Are Our Future

Youth Leaders

Unite! A new and exciting ministry

for adult youth leaders is underway in the East Ohio Conference. Over the past 18 months we have compiled a database that will soon allow youth leaders to connect regionally. Veteran youth leaders will be a point of contact for those with less experience. The new network will enable youth leaders to be resources for one another, offering prayer and support to those in need.

More details will be released at Youth Annual Conference and Annual Conference in June. For more information and to be entered into the database, please visit www.eocumc.com/youth/yln or send an e-mail to kayew@eocumc. com.

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Planting the Seed Reflections By Rev. Jim Magaw*

My Days in Sunday School By Leland Spencer*

“For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son.” John 3:16. This is one of many verses that I had to memorize during Sunday school and Vacation Bible School days. I also had another favorite verse that I had to memorize. It was Phil. 4:13. “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” I remember going to Sunday school every week with my grandmother. She and I each had perfect attendance for 13 straight years. During the big snow storm in the ‘50s we walked five miles because the buses were not running. I can, still to this day some 50 years later, name all of my wonderful teachers. They would teach us songs like “The B-I-B-L-E,” “Do Lord, oh Do Lord,” “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” “This Little Light of Mine” and many others. I remember the Bible stories that they told us each week, like Jesus as a little boy being in the temple and getting lost from his parents. The story of the little man named Zacchaeus who climbed up a sycamore tree to see Jesus. We heard about Mary and Joseph, their trip to Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus. Are our children today getting these important stories told or read to them? How many of them can recite a Bible verse? Are we teaching them songs like those I mentioned? These are the most important things I have learned in my life. I don’t remember a lot of history from my school days. But, I do remember things from Sunday school. *Leland Spencer is President of East Ohio United Methodist Men and a retired Youth Director at Grace United Methodist Church in North Canton.

Attending Sunday school was not a question that was open for discussion in my childhood home. We went. That was it. There was not much to do on Sunday mornings. No television to watch. No soccer to practice. No games to play. All I had to do was read the Sunday comics, and no one would let me do that until after lunch anyway. Regardless of the enforced nature of my attendance, I thrived in Sunday school. I liked the picture cards with stickers, I learned the Bible stories and I especially loved the excitement of Christmas activities. When I was older, I often got to read the narration for the Christmas pageant, but in earlier years, like the other children, I always had a “piece” to learn for the program. When I was in about the fourth grade, the pastor’s son was a good friend of mine. After we had finished “speaking our pieces,” he and I slipped out the side door of the church and went next door to the parsonage. We were playing a board game when one of the teachers came to remind us that we still had another memorized selection to give. When I was 15-years-old, the Sunday school superintendent asked me to become his assistant. That meant that on one Sunday of the month, I got to read the lesson at the opening gathering, choose a hymn and call on one of the elders to lead us in prayer. It wasn’t much but, combined with all the other good influences of that little church on my life, it contributed to my feeling a call to ministry. It was my privilege then to exercise that ministry in the Northeast Conference and the East Ohio Conference.

stories

*Rev. Jim Magaw is a retired elder. He served for 41 years, including six as superintendent of the then Cambridge District.

grandmothers

east ohio joining hands

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love

Sunday School

friends © Christopher Futcher/iStockphoto.com

A New Home

Sunday School Memories

By Bobbi Cline*

By Rev. Sarah Cerreto Macdonald*

I’ve been attending Utica United Methodist Church (Three Rivers District) for almost a year. My life continues to be impacted by the amazingly dedicated people who attend. I’m glad to be part of the youth group, where I’ve seen teenagers reveal their compassion for people through service projects and engage in lively debates and discussions about Scripture and faith. The group is led by an inspiring young woman full of compassion, whose life has encouraged my own in so many ways as she radiates with the love of God. My Sunday school teachers have always spoken the truth with excess love, for which I am so grateful. I currently attend a women’s Bible study once a week. It feeds me with the Word and continually challenges and encourages me to be a difference in the world. I’m also excited to see so much loving effort put forth to minister to children, with an area of the church newly remodeled specifically for them. It’s beautiful to hear the sound of children worshipping Jesus echo into the sanctuary on Sunday mornings. My spiritual life is growing, and continually touched, by the spirited people of this church community who show such passion to love God and to love others.

A new culture and a new life. It was so strange and frightening. Mom assisted in dressing me and sent me out the front door of our new two-room Connecticut apartment saying “Go find a church ...” My parents had just been recruited, from North Carolina, to work in a mill in Willimantic. We left in the back of someone’s car and arrived to begin a new life. I made a brief visit to the closest church, a Congregational church, where I couldn’t tell which door to enter. I stood on the sidewalk and watched to see where others went in, and then I shyly entered. Nice people and children I knew from school, but “not for me.” A new friend in my neighborhood said, “Come and go with me to the Methodist church.” My Dad claimed to be Methodist, but rarely attended. My Mom and I were Free Will Baptist and we went every Sunday. Going to Willimantic Methodist was like “going to a home” I could only have imagined. They were so friendly, supporting me in every way. I fit in and I was encouraged to be me. The Spirit of God was alive in our Sunday school through music, fun and study. Our opinions were important and we were encouraged to speak our hearts. The teachers were caring and well prepared. Through their dedication, we were surrounded in God’s love. How I needed the welcome and openness I received from each person! My parents worked separate shifts each day, so when the church was open, I was there. Many thanks go out to teachers long gone to their heavenly reward. I so hope that when my time comes to go home, Mrs. Gertrude Richards, Mrs. Arlene Thompson, Mr. Bernier, and the Rev. Jon L. Camp will, once again, be there at the Gate of Heaven to welcome me. Oh, Lord, may I show others through my teaching the love shown to me by my teachers. In Jesus’ name. Amen. *Rev. Sarah Cerreto Macdonald is in her

*Bobbi Cline is a recent graduate of Mount Vernon Nazarene University who regularly attends Utica United Methodist Church.

teachers

community

4th year as pastor at Pleasant Hills United Methodist Church.

east ohio joining hands

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GOD

Children of By Rick Wolcott

Treat each person as a child of God.

Participants in LOGOS Youth Club at Ridgewood United Methodist Church (North Coast District) live by this one simple rule. Each Wednesday evening from September through March children, youth and adults gather for the four elements of LOGOS: Bible study, family time, recreation and worship skills. “It’s important to offer Christ to children because not all who come are churched,” said Beth Schuenaman. The 4th grade LOGOS teacher has been active in the nondenominational ministry at Ridgewood UMC since the church first offered the program to the community 20 years ago. “The church was looking for a way all those years ago to reach children as well as families in our neighborhood, to offer them a high-quality Christian education program which met on a day other than Sunday mornings,” said senior pastor the Rev. Charlie Tobias. Mary Cain and Maria Held co-direct the program that attracts approximately 50 children/youth and 35 adult helpers each week. “I like LOGOS because it is intergenerational,” said Cain. “I choose to be involved in a vital program that is helping the church grow.” Each week has a theme. On Mar. 7 the group discussed the benefit of being “Stuck on God.” Robert Takacs and Natalie Held showed the faith they have in their peers that night ― agreeing to be “stuck” to the wall. Participants begin each Wednesday in ageappropriate Bible study. “It’s a nice opportunity to know the youth of the church. This program helps them feel a connection to the church and helps them feel that they matter,” said Mar Bruner. She teaches junior high Bible study and is the worship skills music instructor. Bible study is followed by family time. Those in attendance are divided up so that each table in Fellowship Hall has six children and two adults who sit down to a family-style, home cooked meal. One child at each table is selected to bring the food from the kitchen to start the meal. Another child at the table is responsible for clearing away the dirty dishes.

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“This is done so kids can experience a sit down meal they may not get at home,” said Schuenaman. Family time concludes with a prayer circle and the singing of the LOGOS song, We Know That We Are Children of God. “Children from all over the Parma community, as well as their parents and families, both those who are churched and many who are not, are treated through Ridgewood UMC LOGOS to a program that reaches and teaches this message,” said Tobias, referring to the title of the song. “LOGOS Youth Club helps children and youth understand what it means to be a child of God and it helps adults stay connected to the youth of today,” said Held. After dinner, participants are divided into age groups. One group stays in Fellowship Hall for recreation, while the other group heads off to worship skills. After 40 minutes the

groups switch activities. Recreation provides a chance for those involved to get exercise and burn off excess energy. Worship skills class prepares youngsters to lead in the Sunday morning service of worship. The youngest children sing. The junior high students play instruments – either chimes or God rods. The high school class participates in puppet ministry. Renita Nohejl has been teaching students the art of puppet ministry at Ridgewood UMC since 1978. A couple of times each year the group will visit and perform at other churches. After a recent such performance a woman told the group the experience “changed my life.” Hundreds of people in the Parma community say the same thing about LOGOS. To learn more about the Ridgewood UMC ministry, please visit www.thelogosministry.org.

Kids Learn Through Serving By Pastor Tina Gallaher*

Real Life Community of Faith (Ohio Valley District) is a United Methodist faith community that worships at Union Local Elementary School in Morristown. We are very intentional about teaching children the value of serving our Lord by serving others. Real Life’s children are present during the opening worship service and then depart to Kids’ Impact. The Sunday school program teaches children in grades K-6 that they can make an impact by participating in community outreach.

Summer Reading Fun Fest By Kathy Schmucker*

Statistics show that 8 million students in grades fourth through 12 read below their grade level. The startling numbers left one question gnawing at our hearts: How will these students ever read the word of God? Fairhope United Methodist Church (Canal District) in Louisville felt called to meet the problem head-on. Summer Reading Fun Fest is a faith-based literacy project. Its mission is to enrich the lives of local school children during the summer by providing resources and volunteers to nurture reading skills in a caring, Christian environment. The program, which is modeled after another successful one at Westbrook Park United Methodist Church (Tuscarawas District) in Canton, has been a blessing to so many since its 2010 launch. Approximately 20 adult volunteers spent one day a week last July playing games, singing and reading with small groups of children. They helped students practice their reading skills and taught them about the love of Jesus. Lunch was included with the program because a large percentage of students in our community qualify for free and reduced school lunches. Participants learned the importance of helping others through mission work. Students made dog bones for the humane society, wrote thank you notes to military personnel and created placemats that are used in our meal ministry. Each week students went home with a book they could keep so they could practice reading with their family. Our generous donors also saw to it that each student received a Bible and that their family was provided with resource material on both reading and how to nurture the faith of their children. God has blessed us so that we can be a blessing to others. Fairhope’s Summer Reading Fun Fest is one way God allows us to touch our community with his love!

In the past four months Real Life Kids have:

• Collected pet food and other pet items and delivered them to the local animal shelter.

• Packed shoe boxes to be sent overseas as part of Operation Christmas Child. Each box contains a drawing or a handwritten personal note created by a Real Life Kid.

• Served soup for the International Souper Bowl of Caring. Proceeds were donated to a food pantry, a soup kitchen and a community garden that supplies vegetables for both the pantry and the kitchen.

• Participated in the 40 Days of Giving leading up to Easter by making items for and delivering them to residents of a local nursing home and collecting food to be delivered to the food pantry. *Pastor Tina Gallaher is a full-time local pastor in her 1st year at Real Life Community of Faith.

*Kathy Schmucker is Director of Educational Ministries at Fairhope United Methodist Church.

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The Sermons of Wesley By Rev. Delaine McGhee*

141 SOW By Dr. Gloria Brown*

It was not until about two years ago that I really became interested in the works of John Wesley. Although I have been United Methodist for many years, my knowledge was limited to his biography. I saw some Methodist Churches morphing into something that John Wesley probably had not intended. It was at that point that I thought I should do something to enlighten myself on God’s presence in all the stages of Wesley’s life. I especially felt the need to be informed about the theology that defined the Methodist Movement. I started to read anything in sight about Wesley. I have concluded, from reading some of his sermons and books about him that he knew something about most of the things that we encounter every day (e.g., money or the lack thereof, gossiping, grief, ethical behavior, being a Christian, etc.). Not much has changed. I just believe good disciples can be made by lifting Wesley’s words (with supporting scriptures) off the printed page and transferring the learning to new settings where practical application can be made. Thus was born 141 SOW. *Gloria Brown, PhD. is Director, Racial-Ethnic Ministries for the East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church.

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ometimes people jump into situations before thoroughly exploring what they are about to get into. Such was the case in studying the Sermons of John Wesley (141 SOW). In preparing to facilitate these sermons I discovered that John Wesley did not bite his tongue when it came to proclaiming the truth of God’s Word. His sermons, even today, challenge our thinking and cause a great deal of discussion. Through the study of Wesley’s words we are affirming our understanding of God’s Word while correcting our misinterpretation of some passages of Scripture. When posed with the opportunity to teach, not preach, John Wesley’s sermons my initial thought was, “What a great way to introduce the congregation to their Wesleyan roots.” The experience has greatly enriched instructor and students alike, despite struggling at times with Wesley’s theology and having to navigate the “old English” language of the sermons. Needing to be more deliberate in understanding the language made the class aware that too often we do surface reading, never exploring beneath the words. On more than one occasion we learned that modern-day Christians have tilted the Word of God to fit neatly into our world, our life-style and our prejudices. We also discovered we don’t always go far enough in meaning and intent of the Word. It has been rewarding to rediscover elements of well-known scriptures. Sermon 32 – Questions from Wesley’s ‘Upon Our Lord’s Sermon on the Mount’ found us taking a deeper look at Matthew 7:15-20. We found ourselves seeking answers to: 1) “… who are these false prophets”, 2) “… what appearance they put on”, and 3) “… how we may know what they really are, notwithstanding their fair appearance.” The Sermons of Wesley have given congregants of Grafton United Methodist Church (Firelands District) and others the opportunity to encounter God’s Word at levels that are not possible in most modern-day worship experiences. It is within the context of these sermons that those who have studied with me for more than a year have discovered affirmation of their faith. It is my hope that 141 SOW (Sermons of Wesley) will inspire those in the study to stretch beyond what may seem the obvious understanding of God’s Word. Questioning and challenging leads to better understanding of the Word, allowing participants to develop a more reverent and personal devotion, depth in prayer and encouragement to reach others — making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. *Rev. Delaine McGhee is in her 8th year as pastor at Grafton United Methodist Church.

The Lifeboat:

The Impact of Bible Study on My Life

By Chris Hilty*

anticipated) something from the Word and weren’t bout five years ago I began my journey back satisfied waiting another week to meet with our home to God. Before I lost touch with God respective groups. A combined group was formed. I had been a faithful student of Scripture This group became like a lifeboat to me on a personal level, doing a daily reading about three years ago when I unexpectedly wound and spending devotional time praying. My new pasup in prison for six (6) tor suggested joining a men’s months. During those dark group that was meeting for days I had a personal expeBible study. I realized that I rience and encounter with needed it. God was turning my God. All during that time life around and I rediscovered the group kept me and my a deep hunger for the Word. family in constant prayer I was a bit apprehensive and kept in contact with me since I had not been part of so that I could remain in a group study before. I encommunity with them. This joyed meeting with the men. group and those experiencWe took turns suggesting es changed my life forever. the Scriptures for study each Those who continue week. It was an intimate and with the group today call it safe place to share how God “Happy Hour.” It is one of the is at work in our lives. I bemost fulfilling times of our gan to feel God’s pull on my week. We have cried with heart again and God speaking one another over deep loss to me through His Word. Life and over great joy. We conwas turning in a new direcfess to one another and ention. But it was still about me. © Steve Debenport/iStockphoto.com courage each other and we Revelations about my pray for each other. We have past forced a short separation discovered the real meaning of church through the from my wife and family. That was one of the worst Scriptures and in service to one another. We are days of my life. After that the only place I wanted not merely a Bible study or a small group anymore. to be was with the men’s Bible study at church. We are the Body of Christ, the Beloved Community. The group was the only place I felt safe My prayer for you today is that you will come to and loved, in spite of myself. God continued know the God that I know through Scripture, Bible to call to me. Confession and forgiveness were study and small group: the God of relentless purin my heart but I couldn’t yet confront them. suit, extravagant love, and amazing grace. Then one day the men’s and women’s groups came up short for attendees. The few gathered *Chris Hilty is a member of Garfield Memorial there that day decided to have a group session toUnited Methodist Church in Pepper Pike. gether. We all agreed that we needed (more like

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A Colorful History © Prapass Wannapinij/iStockphoto.com

Ruth Snodgrass knows the old adage is true – a picture is worth a thousand words.

By Deanna Bottar*

n helping to plan the Strasburg United Methodist Church (Tuscarawas District) bicentennial celebration last year, Snodgrass wanted to use images alongside words to tell her church’s story. “We thought about how to put it into a form that would attract people to seeing it,” said Snodgrass, a church member since 1952. “It might make a little more impact than just reading about a historic event.” Her idea? A coloring book. The book took its title from the theme of the year-long celebration: “The Light Still Shines.” Its cover embodied the theme colors of orange, red and yellow, and 200 copies were printed. Snodgrass, a retired teacher who has written two children’s picture books and many songs, worked in collaboration with the church’s bicentennial committee and Navarre-based artist, Cathie Fithian, who donated her time and artistic talent to the church for the project. Among the coloring pages in the book are the depiction of a favorite stained glass window, two pages devoted to each of five ministers who served the church during the past 50 years, and drawings of events pictured in church scrapbooks. “The minister we had the longest time, Howard Fox, was here 27 years,” Snodgrass said, explaining that Fox and his wife remain church members. “So, we had a picture of Howard Fox baptizing a baby from about 30 years ago. … Over that long period of time, he really baptized a couple of generations of people.” When the church was founded in 1811, the congregation

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consisted of a handful of families who gathered together in a log home. “I could just picture one of the circuit riders coming up over the hill to where this log cabin was and finding lights maybe gleaming across the snow,” Snodgrass said, reflecting on the bicentennial theme. “I had that picture in my head, and to imagine how relieved and how happy he would have been to see that they were still there and they were still meeting and that the light still shines.” Shortly thereafter, the congregation began to share a simple building with two other denominations until constructing their own in 1856 on Main Street. By 1908, membership had increased and a new building was needed. “They met in the original structure on a Sunday morning, and the members left the building and went up – about a block to the new church they had built – and they were singing, marching up the hill: ‘We’re Marching to Zion.’” At that time, the congregation was led by the Rev. Ellen King. She was the first female pastor of the church ― she was just 20 years old. Then after meeting for a time in a local school house, the church built a new dwelling in 1978. It is there that members not only celebrated the church’s first 200 years but also have begun visioning its future. “We want to meet the needs of the people in the church and to meet the needs of people in the area,” Snodgrass said. *Deanna Bottar is a free-lance writer who grew up in Simpson United Methodist Church in Canton.

Camp- Enriches Spiritual Development By Rev. Gary Jones*

The East Ohio Conference camping program is an extension of the Christian education program found at each of our local churches. Camp is one of the best sources of fun, adventure, spiritual growth and learning available to a young person during the summer vacation months. The program offers a great place to visit, a chance to make new friends, an opportunity to learn in a special environment and, most importantly, a place for individuals to explore their faith.

The enriching experiences of camp provide children and youth with an anchor of support in a sea of choices and can lead to a lifetime of continued growth and spiritual discovery. Planning, playing, worshipping and fellowshipping together gives campers a first-hand account of what it’s like to live in Christian community with one another. It’s an environment that brings out a person’s true identity. A week of camp is equivalent to a year of Sunday school education because campers are together 24 hours a day for several days in a row. I spent many years as a youth minister and Christian educator before coming to East Ohio. During that time I saw what a powerful tool camp can be for our church and the major role it plays in the spiritual development of our youth and children. Campers are accepted for who they are without being prejudged based upon artificial barriers such as in what part of town they each live. Everyone is treated the same, sleeps in the same type of cabins, eats the same food and

enjoys the same activities together. Living in community teaches campers how to maximize their individual talents while working together to accomplish team goals. Campers head home with renewed self-esteem and increased confidence. Some participants meet Jesus for the first time at summer camp. Others find they grow closer in their walk with Christ during their time away. Often time campers find it easier to share their faith story with others after having attended camp. The East Ohio Camps staff is excited to provide Christian education opportunities to your congregation. We hope to see you this summer at Camp Aldersgate, Camp Asbury or Camp Wanake. For more information, please visit: www.EastOhioCamps.org. *Rev. Gary Jones is the Director of Camps and Retreat Ministries, Higher Education for the East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church.

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2012 EAST OHIO ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Youth Annual Conference (YAC) is a weekend for youth from the East Ohio Conference of the UMC to meet together for a time of worship, leadership development and fellowship. A weekend for teens planned by teens! Where: Lakeside, Ohio 236 Walnut Ave. Lakeside, Ohio 43440 www.lakesideohio.com When: June 15-17, 2012 Featured Speakers: Jeanne Mayo, president of Youth Leader’s Coach and director of Oxygen Youth and Youth Adult Outreach Rev. Mark McTrustry, pastor of East Palestine Centenary and East Palestine Emmanuel UMCs (Mahoning Valley) Tiffanie Shanks, poet Bands: Praise-Apella Andrew Berg Praise Band Bucket Boys

Christian Education Resources Christian Educators Fellowship is an association for both Christian education professionals and volunteers who desire to grow in their ability to foster disciples of Jesus Christ among all age groups. http://www.cefumc.org/

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John Wesley visited Lambeg, County Down, Ireland in the hopes that a growing Methodist Church might unite with the church of Ireland. It was there that he twisted two beech trees together – a sign of common rootedness in Christ and hoped for growth of the kingdom. Those trees living yet in that place today are a witness to the presence of the past. Jesus told many stories about things that were planted and growing. He used these images to point to truths about the kingdom of God. We, The United Methodist Church in East Ohio, have been planted in the past. The Methodist Church intertwined its roots with the Evangelical United Brethren forming The United Methodist Church. The Northeast Ohio Conference has become the East Ohio Conference. We are rooted in a kingdom that is always pulling us forward for fruitfulness in the future. We, The United Methodist Church in East Ohio are rooted in that future. Registration

Website: www.eocumc.com/youth/yac2012

Theme

Online registration for delegates is now open. Visit www.eocumc.com to register. More Information Visit www.eocumc.com/ac2012

Where: Lakeside, Ohio 236 Walnut Ave. Lakeside, Ohio 43440 www.lakesideohio.com When: June 18-21, 2012 Featured Preachers: Bishop John L. Hopkins is resident bishop to the East Ohio Conference Bishop Elizabeth A Eaton serves the Northeastern Ohio Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Bishop Scott J. Jones serves the Kansas Area of The United Methodist Church. Bishop Woody W. White is bishop in residence at Candler School of Theology, Emory University in Atlanta. Rev. Valerie W. Stultz is superintendent of the Canal district and dean of the East Ohio Area cabinet.

United Methodism 101: This interactive course blends audio, video and written materials into a fast-moving learning experience for both groups and individuals who wish to increase their understanding of United Methodism. Each kit includes five identical CDs and one leader’s guide. http://secure.umcom.org/Store/product/productinfo/united-methodism-101-cdkit/542?cid=189

Lessons of the Bible By Mary Elder*

n July of 2011, retired UM pastor Gary Campbell delivered a sermon to the Fredericktown United Methodist Church (Three Rivers District) about reading through the Word of God. One member went home that day thinking about the commitment it would take to read through the Bible in a year. Reading through the Bible on your own is intimidating she thought. What if our whole church read through the Bible … together? A “Read through the Bible” committee was formed in the fall and project, scheduled to begin Jan. 2012, was promoted during Advent. Those interested in participating were asked to fill out a commitment card. With help from a local Christian bookstore, the committee promoted several different ways to read through the Bible: Chronological reading lists would be posted weekly in the bulletin Members could purchase a chronological Daily Bible Members could purchase a copy of Meet the Bible that has shorter readings and reflections Members could purchase a copy of Day by Day Kid’s Bible, which would allow parents to include their children Scriptures could be read to members online at www.biblegateway.com/ resources/audio

The committee felt that it was more important to find ways to encourage people to be “in the Word” rather than to try and force people to do it all the same way. More than 100 people have committed to the project.

One member writes: “We have a 16-year-old daughter with cognitive delays, a 9-year-old son and a 20-month old toddler foster daughter. We as a family decided to use the “Day by Day Kid’s Bible” for our year in the Bible study. Our kids were very excited and we started on January 1 2012. The two older children read aloud and then we have discussion before bedtime prayers. There have been a couple of times where we had to skip a night but would catch up the next evening. It has become part of our routine. Even the baby climbs up on my lap to listen. We are experiencing a greater closeness as a family and definitely a calmer bedtime. The Word is becoming so alive for our kids as they are realizing how very human these men and women were that they have heard about in Sunday school. Even though they failed so many times, God still loved and chose to use them - just as He does with us today. The enthusiasm has not waned. His Word is being implanted within us all.”

*Mary Elder is a member of the Staff Parish Relations Committee at Fredericktown United Methodist Church, where she previously served as lay leader.

Our church sends out supportive e-mails to those involved in the project and we are planning quarterly fellowship events. We look forward to great things as a result of our united effort to be “A Year in the Word.”

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om udents fr School st de y a ra g d n u th All S ugh 5 ok of 2 thro which to ls ra the ages u m se to e h th c n a o e r worked e quarte ately on m xi ro p p a . complete

By Sandy Smith*

We at Canal Fulton United Methodist Church (Tuscarawas District) place great emphasis on Christian Education. Students will become our future congregation so it is important they become involved in Christ’s teachings. The format of our program has evolved over the years. The model that has been the most successful is the one we use currently. It consists of a Biblebased lesson, a craft period and music. The response from the students has been most gratifying. Students also choose and direct a mission project each year. One of the most popular is selling links to a paper chain. The congregation enjoys seeing the resulting paper chain wind through the halls of the church. Funds raised from the project are used to provide Christmas to a local family. The entire class gathers together to shop for the recipient family using a list of needed items provided by a communitybased assistance organization. After shopping, they return to the church, wrap and tag each parcel and place them all underneath the tree in the sanctuary. The youth group assists the younger children. Together they learn the importance of being in mission.

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g n i h c a e ws

T the Good Ne

Sharing is also evident during music and craft times. Children ages two through 11 participate in children’s choir and children’s chime choir. Each group performs throughout the year during worship services. Evidence of the children’s artistic talents can be seen in the hallways of the church. Under the direction of Liza Lower and other assistants, the children have constructed three murals. Each mural measures 4’ x 8’ and depicts a Bible lesson. Years later, children still proudly point to their individual contribution to the mural and retell the story it depicts. Confirmation class is offered to youth in the 6th grade. Members of the class also choose a mission project to benefit our local church. We have found that encouraging the class to decide on the project means they take ownership in it. The resulting enthusiasm of the class is evident to all in the church. These teens are usually the first to offer their assistance with community dinners, going on mission trips, painting, cooking and so much more. Christian education doesn’t end with our youth. Mentors and parents of those in confirmation class meet during the same time as the students. Pastor Kathy Moody-Arndt leads the adults through the same lessons being taught to the youth. The class allows adults an opportunity to learn, reflect and reconfirm their own beliefs. Adults also have the option of participating in both Biblebased and contemporary issues classes. None of these classes would be possible without the help of dedicated individuals who live and believe in the importance of teaching God’s word. We are blessed to have their willingness to be involved in this ministry. *Sandy Smith has been involved in the Christian education program at Canal Fulton United Methodist Church for the past 30 years.

Transforming Discipleship By Rev. Jennifer Olin-Hitt*

Water’s Edge is the Wednesday night growth experience during which Christian faith is watered with study, fellowship and prayer at Green Valley United Methodist Church (Canal District). Participants gathered this past winter to explore The Way of Transforming Discipleship, a six-week study that invited us to discern how we are being changed because of our faith in Jesus Christ. The diverse group - several teenagers, a couple of young moms, grandparents, and singles - gathered weekly for a dinner and to study scripture. We paid attention to the groans of the world around us and to our own weary hearts. In open, honest discussion, group members developed a deeper commitment to the person of Jesus, to his transforming ways and to his church. Our time of study and discussion was important to the learning process but hands-on life-experience was an invaluable component of our group. On Feb. 11, the Green Valley Transforming Discipleship group spent a final retreat day at a transitional housing site in Akron sponsored by South Street Ministries. Our group ate a meal with men who live together in this “accountability” house. They heard the men’s stories of Christian community and strength found as they live together. Suburban Christians witnessed the deep faith in Christ of some very honest, urban men. The Green Valley UMC group experienced one additional rich blessing. Right in the middle of the six-week experience, three of our members left on a United Methodist Volunteers in Mission (UMVIM) trip to Camphor Mission in Liberia. They were sent out by the group to a hurting part of the world where Christ is transforming lives. Their «companions in Christ» back home kept them connected through prayer and through very sporadic internet. Before the end of the study, these three volunteer missionaries returned to the group with stories of their own transformations. The Way of Transforming Discipleship facilitated much spiritual growth. This course - and its larger parent study, Companions in Christ - is responsible for a fresh wind of life at Green Valley UMC. Because of such groups, we are experiencing healthy, authentic Christian community. We read our scriptures with fresh eyes. We hear human cries at home and far away. Through it all we see the person of Jesus Christ - leading us to the kind of growth that God invites.

*Rev. Jennifer Olin-Hitt is in her 3rd year as pastor at Green Valley United Methodist Church.

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Our Teachers

GIVE BACK

My favorite childhood memory did not begin with my Sunday school teachings but at a Vacation Bible School I attended with a neighbor. I was raised in a Christian home but something clicked at that VBS and I made a conscience decision to dedicate my life to Christ. After that, my Sunday school life became more fulfilling. That was one of the main reasons I became a Christian Education director and why I feel VBS is the best week of the year! I try to make sure that the excitement of that one week each summer carries over into Sunday school. It is there that we are surrounded each day by God’s love and teachings and by kids who are excited to learn. Jessica Van Lehn Director of Christian Education Strongsville United Methodist Church

I attended Church of the Savior United Methodist Church (Tuscarawas District) in Canton from 1950 into the 1970s as a youth and young adult. My third grade Sunday school teacher was Mrs. Adelaid Lanchof. Her table was the last one in the rectangular room. The table and chairs were painted wood. She was always there and ready to teach whether there were two children or eight. Her manner was gentle and her face smiled. As an adult, she was my mentor when I was learning to teach Sunday school children about Jesus Christ. She continued to teach until her health would not permit. I taught children and then adults - but I always learned more. They are the greatest teachers! Gwendolyn B. Miller First United Methodist Church (Massillon)

We are blessed with a fantastic team of teachers. They prepare the lessons and come to class every week. Their unwavering consistency is a beautiful example to the congregation and to the students of their love for Jesus. Some of our teachers have been with their classes for many years but are as fresh and fun as when they started. They are a humble group who don’t like a lot of fanfare but we thank God for each one of them. Linda Crissey Director of Christian Education & Family Ministries Tallmadge United Methodist Church.

How exciting it is to have students arrive in the classroom ready to learn. I try to make the students part of the lesson on Sunday mornings by either acting out the story with props or by playing a game that can ties into the story. Keeping the students involved helps them to remember the stories because they were part of it. It is awesome to make that come true to them. Pat Fillmore, Rootstown United Methodist Church

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Serving the Community

xciting ministry is taking place at Rockport United Methodist Church (North Coast District). Each weekday between the hours of 6:15 am and 6:15 pm The Rockport Early Childhood Center and its 35 staff members care for approximately 100 children, ages newborn to 6-years-old. This ministry has been making a difference in the Rocky River community for more than 30 years. Rockport Early Childhood Center has always had a reputation for excellence. It had previously been certified by the State of Ohio as a One Star Center. Last year I challenged our director to step up our ministry in this area and strive to receive a second star. I am proud to announce that it became a reality. Rockport is now a two star Early Childhood Center, the only one in Rocky River. It is known as a place that cares for children and a place where excellence in ministry can be found. It should be noted that in the entire state of Ohio there are only 591 childhood centers that have received a one star rating and only 291 that have received a two star rating. Rockport Early Childhood Center has moved into a very elite status and continues to strive for excellence in ministry. *Rev. Dr. Gordon Myers is in his 3rd year as pastor at Rockport United Methodist Church.

t Boardman United Methodist Church (Mahoning Valley District) we have several children’s events that serve as entry points for families coming into our church. Sheila Fry, who has a heart for outreach leads two of these events – the Easter Egg Hunt and our Candy Cane Lane. More than 100 children, most of who are between the ages of 2 and 6, come to the Easter Egg Hunt to make crafts, color eggs, have a snack and hear the Easter story. Candy Cane Lane is a similarly structured event during the Advent season. Two or three young families come into our church each year thanks to the excitement of these events. Often, the first church activity for these families is Vacation Bible School. We typically serve between 130 and 150 children ages four through 12 during VBS week. It is truly a group effort. Kristie DePascale and Paula Renouf recruit 60 volunteers who teach, lead games and music, prepare snacks, do crafts and promote the church. *Rev. Peggy Welch is in her 11th year as copastor, along with husband the Rev. Ash Welsh, at Boardman United Methodist Church.

Upward Sports Is a

Winner By Renee Leonard*

We are in the midst of our third Upward Sports basketball season at Church of the Saviour United Methodist Church (North Coast District) in Cleveland Heights. The program for students in grades 5 and 6 has shown significant growth each year. This season 176 kids are participating in the league that holds its practices and games at area churches. The Upward league provides basketball with a message. Each practice features team devotions in addition to the X’s and O’s of game strategy. Parents hear their own message during half time on game day, usually from a Church of the Saviour member. It is amazing to watch the relationships between parents, players and church members blossom throughout the season. This is important because more than 30 percent of our Upward families claim no church affiliation. Dozens of coaches, referees, concession stand workers and other volunteers make the Upward alley ning V n o program possible. But the biggest h a * n M tia h( y Wilso Churc s. The Chris s By Bett investment of time is made u hodist t s up e e o J r M g rify ed ific by League Director Lauren le Unit bout and glo ol. Age-spec e each il v s d a on im ho Lanphear and Commissioner Hamm dren to learn nior high sc ring which t pect of bs at il ju u lu h as d h c C y g r h r r Tammy Owings. One or both of ou rou ee urc eve n Pion as a way for en aged 2 th t at the ch t into a is g r e h b C them are present four weeknights for dr 91 We put nigh ued for chil t) in 19 esday nd learns to is plag e h practices and all day Saturday during Distric g program is very Wedn ic a h s w ge ty e enc n ity bad n Coun d loving influ rly discipli r two hours iv o t games. s c r a e / f f le n fo n of Je t regula rns Bib meet sitive a In addition to his many other duties ant ea r sectio o offer a po whom do no district e ip r o ic t o r p t f pa Lauren also coaches a team. Tammy e youth ed in a e are proud nity, many o e. er of th heir lif urch is locat W u t b . m s m e m m o m c extends a warm welcome and caring attitude ble ch was a gram . in our ial pro Our duates the ministry utreach pro en milies ny soc a a a r f to each child who comes through the door to g m d t n n h o wit na ece ring has be dren›s childre One of our r idering ente play basketball. Then on Sunday mornings she is am. It ur chil r ays . o to the s g h n o c r h o r c p c u ch has alw laun ions d nd is s o back at church with the same warmth and love for d a is G e t m M lp attend u a b d fice he ship te st Fun rogram her Sunday school class of three-year-olds. Lauren and leader e district of rge Tru ing for the p 4. u B ed on e h T is 4 und center ow m th f r o r Tammy are the face of Jesus to many, many children and d a is f n e t y it fi n h his gra rs to is that y learn ance t with a over the yea families in Cleveland Heights. attend this program hear ts. The od to be e lt g u a c r diffi eG their out r ave *Renee Leonard is Director of Children’s Ministries at Church of the Saviour. ing ab ed. Ou Him in es. We prais provid tstanding th en to know v li y u hildr eir dail The o helps c udy is to th d n a s t le s Jesu ant Bib is program. impor t th h d wit involve

b u l C r e e n o i P

*Betty Wilson is in her 21st year as Coordinator of the Pioneer Clubs program at Hammondsville United Methodist Church.

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