May 2015 newsletter to pdf

THE

thread

Vol. 2 May 2015

G ROWIN G IN G OD’S LOVE

God’s Story at FUMC this month

IN THIS ISSUE Mission and Vision

p. 1

Observations From Jason

p. 3-4

Sid’s Butterfly Flutterings

p. 5-6

Youth Ministries The Factory: An Invitation

p. 7 p. 8

Health and Wellness

p. 9-10

Music Ministries

p. 11-12

Children’s Ministries

p. 13-15

United Methodist Women

p. 16

Letter From the Editor

p. 17-18

Notes From Missions

p. 19-22

Wonderstruck Q&A

p. 23-26

What’s Coming Up

p. 27-32

Celebrations and Concerns

p. 33-34

OBSERVATIONS

from

jason Twitter: @jjasonfry

I

t seems hard for me to believe that as I write this, I just have five more Sundays to preach here before I move (since I’ll be out two Sundays in May).

The time is slipping away, and Joan and I are faced with what sometimes seems to us like the gargantuan task of packing, and making those kinds of preparations for a move.

learned never to predict that sort of thing. Even though I’m feeling very good about the move in many ways and do believe God is leading the process, I also am experiencing a sense of loss and sadness. I’m aware that a good bit of the emotions I’m swimming in are about grief.

This is the seventh time I’ve moved from a congregation to serve another one in over 31 years of pastoral ministry within the Southwest Texas Conference (and now Rio Texas Conference.) I’m hoping this is my last such move before retiring, but I’ve

Every now and then I catch myself in midst of doing something and it’ll hit me, “I’m not going to be doing that much longer,” or I’ll be somewhere in town and I’ll think, “I’m not going to be coming here many more times.”

For example, I just officiated in what

“

Even though I’m feeling very good about the move in many ways ...I am also experiencing a sense of loss and sadness.

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”

will certainly be my last wedding as pastor here in Fredericksburg. Most of all, I interact with many of you, and I look at you and think to myself how I’m going to miss this person.

potential. And although when June rolls around, I will no longer be your pastor, I will still be connected to you as your Christian brother and friend.

We will always be part of each other.

One of the things I’ve learned in my I hope to see you each of the previous experiences of this, is that remaining Sundays I am here. when I’m with someone and a Yours in Christ, thought of gratitude or affection for that person surfaces, I try not to just feel it, but also say it. And I’ve had some of you do the same with me. I think it’s important that we express Jason’s last Sunday will be June those emotions, both those of grief 7th. We will host an ice cream and loss, as well as those of love and social at FUMC from 44-6 p.m. that Sunday as a congregational and gratitude. I also know that in any congregation there are those (and I’m community farewell to Jason and Joan. George Lumpkin’s first realistic enough to realize there are Sunday with us will be June 28th at our Summer Celebration at Lady some here) who are not saddened to see a pastor move on – folks who just Bird Johnson Park. More opportunities to make this didn’t respond well to me, who transition go smoothly for both chafed at some of the ways I led and Jason and George and their families will be announced in the coming ministered, or who just don’t like me all that much. The interesting thing is, weeks. We pray for the Frys as they get ready for their move to Corpus those people will grieve, too. They are Christi, for the Lumpkins as they also experiencing a loss and will have leave Lampasas and arrive in Fredericksburg, and the future of adjustments to make to a change in FUMC under George’s leadership. pastors, even one they welcome.

Jason Fry

I want to express it has been a privilege to serve as your pastoral leader during these six years. This is a congregation with great strength and

Dr. J. Jason Fry has served as Senior Pastor of Fredericksburg UMC since June of 2009. He is a lifelong Methodist and grew up in Burnet.

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miss Maya Angelou! I miss her wisdom. I miss her speaking voice. I quote her in this epistle to make this point. Each of you reading this, including yours truly, needs to pay attention to what is contained in her wisdom. Our church family needs to pay attention to the wisdom therein also.

“Christ has died. Christ has risen.” And we, being adopted children in the family by the shed blood of Jesus Christ, are now new creatures in Christ! That makes us, as I have said to every church I have pastored, “peculiar” people! Angelo uses a better word …

“AMAZING!”

“

I am going to stay with using “peculiar” to describe you because you probably do not see yourself as “amazing” or, on the other hand, you may need to look at your ego if you use “amazing” to describe yourself and not give the credit to God. But PECULIAR we are. We are different.

We love our God, neighbor, and self with a love modeled after our Lord and Savior…”dying to self, living for others!”

Show me how really peculiar you really are by showing up for worship this Sunday. By participating in a Small Group such as Christian Education on Sunday morning, or by being a living “Bible” in your discipleship action around town. No longer are you a caterpillar but now you are an “amazing,” beautiful butterfly in showing the world how “amazing” you can be!

If you are always trying to be NORMAL, you will never know how AMAZING you can be.

Maya Angelou

-Maya Angelou

(Maya Angelou was an American author, poet, dancer, actress, and singer. She published seven autobiographies, three books of essays, and several books of poetry, and was credited with a list of plays, movies and television shows spanning over 50 years. She received dozens of awards and more than 50 honorary degrees. Angelou is best known for her series of seven autobiographies, which focus on her childhood and early adult experiences. The first, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, tells of her life up to the age of 17 and brought her interna&onal recogni&on and acclaim.

Lived: Apr 04, 1928 - May 28, 2014 (died at age 86) Partner: Vusumzi Make (1961 - 1962) Spouse: Paul du Feu (1973 - 1981) · Enistasious Tosh Angelos (1951 - 1954) Awards: Presiden&al Medal of Freedom (2010) · Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album (1994, 1996, 2003) · Spingarn Medal (1994) · Langston Hughes Medal (1991) · NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work, Nonfic&on (2005, 2009) · Marian Anderson Award (2008) · NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work Albums: Miss Calypso

”

Be Blessed, Pastor Sid

Rev. Sid Spiller has been our associate Pastor at FUMC since July of 2014.

He served as a pastor for over 35 years, and focuses primarily on pastoral care and senior adult ministry here in his retirement.

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I

love this time of year with the hotter complete the Medical Release forms and weather and anticipation of the end of answer any questions you might have school. I want to say “Congratulations” about the trip! to our Keep your Here is what you 20 The Bridge Party from 6-8 p.m. seniors! eyes open And also can look forward 24 Confirmation Sunday at 9 a.m. remind 31 Senior Recognition Sunday at 9 a.m. for a to: Summer everyone Calendar in that though May June the mail school may 2 Mystery Event for 5-7 soon! We be coming 13-19 Belize Mission Trip graders from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. have a lot of to an end, 22-25 Vacation Bible School 6 The Bridge from 5:30-8 p.m. things going the fun at 28-July 4 High School Mission Trip on so please 13 The Bridge from 5:30-8 p.m. church is Weimar, Tx don’t 17 Mission Trip Meetings: just hesitate to High School at 12:00 p.m. beginning. call me if Middle School at 12:30 p.m.

There are you have some any questions. My number is 830.203.0559 exciting activities and events going on in and email is joel@fredumc.org. the next couple of months.

Our Middle School and High School Mission Trips are a month away. The deadline to register with a $100 nonrefundable deposit is Sunday, May 3.

There will be a mandatory meeting for all participants on Sunday, May 17 at 12:00 p.m. for the High School trip and 12:30 p.m. for the Middle School trip in the Youth Room. At this meeting we will 7

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Love in Christ!

Joel Griffin Joel has served as director of Youth Ministries at FUMC since August of 2012, and has been in full-time youth ministry for 15 years. Joel’s passion is to see teenagers connect with the love that God has for them.

THE factory

AN INVITATION TO factory workers A

t a Church Conference on December 16, 2014, Jeff Hallford delivered a moving speech about what our church might look like if it ran like a factory in which each and every person was critical to the factory’s work.

The reality is that our church really is like a factory and that we truly are all necessary for FUMC to provide all of the ministries needed both within our church family and beyond.

FUMC, and 3) to raise awareness about past and present ministry opportunities within our church. We’re looking for people from all backgrounds, age groups, and years of FUMC membership/ attendance who want to make connections with other church members through service, outreach, and hospitality.

Please join us in creating a vibrant community of “factory workers” doing “good work”! Our next meeting is on Sunday, May 17 at 6:30. If you're interested in participating in this exciting work, please contact Caroline Eidson (carolineceidson@gmail.com) or Rene Griffin (rrrgriffin@gmail.com) for more information.

“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”

-2 Corinthians 9:8.

You’re invited to become part of FUMC’s Factory. Our goals are 1) to provide opportunities for church members to serve others both within and beyond FUMC, 2) to foster connections within and outside of

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From our wesley nurse D

ear Church Family, Keep your ribcage over your pelvis and lean I found a great article so I thought I would share‌10 Great Exercises to Keep Depression at forward, with one leg lunged forward through the doorway. Be careful not to arch your back. Hold Bay. for 30 seconds. Switch legs. Repeat.

Try high intensity interval training.

Clocking in at 20-30 minutes a day, interval training is a time-saving mood booster. Studies found this workout to be as good as longer, slower exercise regimes like jogging when it comes to burning belly fat, improving your cardio -respiratory fitness level (VO2), and lowering cholesterol. This type of exercise involves spurts of rigorous activity followed by intervals of less intense movements or rest. After warming up with a 5-minute walk, run for a minute, then walk for 2 minutes. Do 5-7 cycles. Finish with a 5-minute cool-down.

Do posture exercises.

Yoga may boost relaxation in your body.

Yoga not only helps your flexibility and strength, it can also help you relax. One theory is yoga increases a neurotransmitter in your body called GABA, which results in calming the mind.

Studies indicate participants who performed yoga consistently showed increased levels of GABA and experienced significant reductions in depression, anger and anxiety. Performing the child's pose and cat pose may help you feel calmer.

Breathe anxiety away.

Try this a few times a day: Breathe deeply into Recent studies show a slouched body posture can your belly for a count of 4. Then exhale for a count of 6. Repeat 5 times. Stress causes your evoke feelings of depression, while standing upright can actually help reverse them. One way sympathetic nervous system (the fight-or-flight to start standing tall: Stretch your chest muscles. system) to kick into high gear, leaving you feeling Tight pectoral muscles are known to weaken your on edge. Studies suggest taking deep breaths upper back, giving you a hunched-over look. So where you exhale longer than you inhale start stretching! Stand in a doorway, arms out to stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system.

This puts the brakes on the sympathetic system, your side, resting on the doorframe at shoulder helping you calm down. level.

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Jumping rope is an inexpensive exercise routine you can take anywhere. You can vary the Zumba, spin and other group exercise classes are intensity going from high, involving one jump a great way to help defeat depression symptoms. each time the rope passes, to a lower level by Mental health experts say group classes can help slowing the rope and adding an extra little jump.

You can even try marching through each turn of you find that sense of belonging, as well as the rope as you build up your stamina. Eight to encourage you to work harder during your ten minutes can really get your heart pumping. workout. Exercising at a higher intensity level Be sure to wear proper footwear and gradually gets your heart pumping and blood flowing, increase the intensity of this workout. energizing you to face the day. Plus, it's a great way to socialize and connect with people who Tone up. share a common interest.

Lifting weights addresses muscle imbalances and Running triggers your body's strengthens you, enabling you to perform daily activities with more ease. Mental health experts own "feel good" chemicals. say toning up not only gives your backside that Running can stimulate the release of "feel good" lift, but also your spirits, as you see the positive endorphins, which are believed to be responsible results of your hard work. A general overall for the euphoric mood some runners experience strengthening and stretching program is after an energizing run called "runner's high." recommended three days a week. Start light and Running for 30 minutes 4-5 times a week work up gradually. A personal trainer or physical reportedly can help you fight feelings consistent therapist can help show you proper form to avoid with depression. Enjoying the outdoor scenery or injury. running with a friend can also help distract you Medical References from your worries.

Exercise with a group.

Hitting the trail may encourage positive thoughts.

Going for a long bike ride or walk along a beautiful path can help take your mind off your troubles as you focus on appreciating the landscape while engaging in a decent cardio workout. Aim for 30 minutes and try to add uphill work to boost that intensity. Pick up the pace with your footwork at times or do some sprints on the bike. In cases of bad weather, stay indoors and hit the treadmill or stationary bike while listening to some upbeat music.

Laugh.

Experts say laughter can cause physical changes in your body, including increasing endorphin production and affecting your stress reaction, resulting in a relaxed feeling. It even burns calories. One study out of Vanderbilt University reportedly found 10-15 minutes of laughter can burn 50 calories. Take a moment every day to look in the mirror, smile, and start to laugh. Force it if you have to. Just watching yourself will generate more laughter!

Jump rope.

Increase or Decrease Depression: How Body Postures Influence Your Energy Level. Biofeedback. 40 (3):125-130. (http:// biofeedbackhealth.files.wordpress.com/2011/01/apublished-increase-or-decrease-depression.pdf...

No joke: Study finds laughing can burn calories (http://www.mc.vanderbilt.edu:8080/reporter/ index.html?ID=4030) The benefits of exercise for the clinically depressed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/ PMC474733/) Exercise treatment for depression: efficacy and dose (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15626549) Energy expenditure of genuine laughter (http:// www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16652129) Effects of yoga versus walking on mood, anxiety, and brain GABA levels: a randomized controlled MRS study (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ pubmed/20722471)

Blessings of Health Tammy Amerson-Wilson, Wesley Nurse 830-997-9849 Tammy joined the FUMC family in 2005 after working as a hospice case manager for HCM for 1.5 years and at Children’s Medical Center for 17 years before that. fredumc.org 10

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ince April of 2013 our church has enjoyed the services of some really incredible video equipment. Since our first recorded video service, the musical The Lord’s Supper, which was presented on April 7, 2013, nearly EVERY worship service has been recorded and saved online on Vimeo at https://vimeo.com/fredumc . At this writing we have actually recorded 199 worship services, so by the weekend of April 22 we will have over 200 videos!

Now, if no one watches them, it’s just a handy way of keeping a record of our services. BUT, in fact, people DO watch our worship services on Vimeo. At this date we know there have been 1,643 viewings since we began 2 years ago! Every month there continue to be a growing number of viewings. In fact, just in the first part of April there have been 174.

and inside living rooms, bedrooms, offices lots of places!

We should see a huge growth in our ‘live’ streaming viewers in the next year or so, and it takes YOU to get the word out to your friends and family. What a great way to invited people TO our church without even getting dressed and driving to our building! But seeing these big numbers of viewers that watch the services AFTER they happen, we understand that people may just wait to watch and not stream, and that’s also okay.

But let’s get the word out about this great tool we have in our hands. Pass the news to your friends and new folks in the community to watch us online!

But Vimeo isn’t the only way to view our worship services; we also save recordings on Sunday Streams. You can get to our “GO PLAYER” through this link: http:// sundaystreams.com/go/fredumc which is where you can watch the services LIVE through streaming, or you can watch the archived services much like Vimeo. We started with Sunday Streams on July 27, 2014, and all worship services may be viewed through their website or phone app.

We have an average of around 10 LIVE viewings every Sunday according to Sunday Streams, but we also have had 349 recorded services viewed since we began last July.

So through the advantage of technology and the gift of our Video Ministry, around 2,000 viewings of our services have happened outside of our walls

Don Doss joined the FUMC staff in April of 2007 having served in several other Boerne and Kerrville churches. Don is FUMC’s Director of Music Ministries, and he oversees all of the musical groups and music ministry work that happens here. He personally directs the Chancel Choir and the Praise Team as well as the Kid’s Music Academy. fredumc.org 12

PALMZ IN THE PLATZ

an Easter celebration

Palmz in the Platz was a beautiful celebration of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus in so many ways. There was the joy of fellow Christians working together to create an event that celebrated Easter and reached out to our families and community to share the miracle of God’s grace to all through His Son. Our church family hauled food and musical equipment to the site. Multiple 13

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people prepared the food. Others lifted up their voices in worship.

Some served as greeters and ushers.

And there where those willing to hide 700 Easter Eggs for the children. Each part played by our church family was wonderful, but I want to share with you what I saw as the Director of Children’s Ministry:

Left: Children listening intently to the Word of God. Right: Children showing such innocence that one can almost see the traces of heaven clinging to them.

Above: The older kids laughing and playing together while hiding eggs for the little ones.

Right: Children creating memories of the joy of being a part of a church family.

Above: A grandparent creating memories of and for her grandchild.

Sharon serves as Children’s Director for FUMC. She is also deeply involved in Wounded Warriors at Nebo and Cards for Christ. She feels called to share Christ’s great love for humanity through her service. fredumc.org

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From our A

pleasant voice on the phone, a helping hand to straighten shelves of toys, a smiling welcome for parents as they pick up their children -- it doesn’t sound like much.

But for our Child Development Center, it’s the little things that mean a lot.

The CDC, now in its fourth year at FUMC, is looking for volunteers in a variety of areas.

“Volunteers might help with paperwork, stock supplies, organize files or check fire extinguishers and locks,” Director Amy O’Neil said.

“They might be answering the phone, talking with parents or even putting together a newsletter for the center.”

People interested in helping out the facility, which welcomes children from six weeks to 12 years old, could make sure playground areas are straight and ready for 15

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children when they arrive in the morning or are prepared for children to come the next day. Help could also be used with transporting the children’s meals from the church kitchen to the classrooms.

“Volunteers could greet parents as they check students in each morning or as they pick up their children in the afternoon, reinforcing the link between the church and the center,” Mrs. O’Neil said.

you could assist. You don’t have to be a handyman but there are little tasks that could be taken care of before they become big problems.

“Willingness and enthusiasm are the two major qualifications,” Mrs. O’Neil said.

Applications are available at the CDC office, and more information is available from CDC volunteer coordinator Cathy Collier at 997-4837, 456 -1574 or tcollier212@austin.rr.com Just one morning or afternoon or Director, Amy O’Neil at a week is all it takes to ease (830) 990-2320, (830)456 the workload of teachers and -8435, or staff and help provide a methodistpreschoolfbg@gmai positive and loving l.com. atmosphere for children.

Would you like to help?

You don’t have to be especially “good with kids” – you just need a desire to help out those who have made that a career.

Extensive secretarial skills aren’t necessary but there are many office tasks with which

Amy has been a member of FUMC since 1985, and joined the staff as director of the Child Development Center in 2011. She has 27 years of experience in special education.

Everyone is invited to participate in this study, and you do not have to be a member of United Methodist Women to attend. Men are certainly welcomed and encouraged to attend.

Sign-up will be available May 10th in Fellowship Hall.

O

n behalf of Fredericksburg United Methodist Women, I cordially invite our entire FUMC family to a 2-day worship experience taking place Saturday and Sunday, May 16 and 17, 2015 for our Celebrations Weekend that includes a mission study and UMW Sunday. Our guest presenter and speaker is our UMC Rio Texas Conference First Lady, Mrs. Barbara Dorff.

Activities get underway Saturday, May 16th, with a mission study titled “The Church and People with Disabilities.” Registration and ‘Meet Barbara’ time, begins at 8:30 a.m. with study starting at 9:30 a.m.

Lunch is $10.00 for adults, and special bag lunches at $0.00 available for the children attending.

The intent of this mission study is to promote awareness, inclusion, accessibility and advocacy for people with disabilities — including youth and children. Unlike other categories of human experience, disability crosses all lines of gender, orientation, ethnicity, socioeconomic position, age and culture.

Remember people with typical bodies can be thought of as temporarily able-bodied because disabilities can, and do, happen at any time to anyone.

The Celebration Weekend continues Sunday, May 17th, with Barbara delivering the message at all worship services. We are privileged to have Barbara Dorff with us for the weekend, as she usually accompanies husband, Bishop Jim Dorff, on many of his travels. Please come to the events and let Barbara know just how special her time with us is.

Blessings to one and all for your never-ending love and support of United Methodist Women.

Billie Rowell President, Fredericksburg UMW PS, speaking of love and support, FUMW realized $933.50 from the Annual Plant and Bake Sale, held April 19th, with funds earmarked for The Good Samaritan Center and Hill Country Community Needs Council equally. Thank you!!! fredumc.org

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The Not So Fun Stuff

Tricia Small is one of the newest member to the FUMC family.

She graduated from UT Austin with a journalism degree last year, and joined the staff in November. She is passionate about transforming lives by sharing the love of Christ.

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ello Church! Your friendly neighborhood communications director here. If you read my article last month, you’ll know that I have only been on this journey of living as a disciple of Jesus for about three years. And let me tell you that the Lord has taught me a WHOLE lot in that very short amount of time. I’ve learned things about trust, and patience and letting go.

here. For the first time probably ever in my life, I feel like I’m part of a COMMUNITY. I opt to do things with my community, instead of shrinking back into my safe apartment. I opt to be more open about myself. I opt to say yes much more often than I am actually comfortable doing.

The Lord is working in me. He is making me a “yes” person. Because what I’ve found is that I am absolutely overwhelmed by how The Lord has blessed me every time I say yes to something when I would rather shield myself.

He is preparing me for whatever good works I’m headed for in His name. He is revealing to me how much I actually lean on my own understanding when I think I’m doing things “just me and Jesus.”

Now let me share with you something that I am really terrible at: living life with other people. I am not good at putting myself out there. I am not good at taking first steps in new friendships. I am not good at being vulnerable with people. I have always been perfectly content to stay in my little corner of the world with a good book and my animals and maybe go hang out with friends every once in a while, but mostly on a very I’ve learned that my shallow surface level. I hesitancy to be love to serve other people and listen to their needs, vulnerable with other but it is a challenge to people ...extends to communicate my own.

“

I’ve learned that my hesitancy to be vulnerable with other people and to ask things of other people extends to my relationship with God. I think it sometimes is because I’m afraid of getting an answer I don’t like; I’m afraid of rejection. But I think it stems from feeling my relationship with mostly And Church, I know that undeserving. Who am I to need this is not how we are anything from anyone. Who am I to God. called to live as ask the Creator of our entire universe Christians. I understand that in my head. Just for anything when I’ve already been blessed like I always understood that Jesus is the Son so much. I try to hide my brokenness from of God in my head. But gosh it is just so much God. I try and fix myself up on my own so easier to put up my walls and protect myself that I’m worthy of praising Him. instead. I think that I can do things just me How silly we are as human beings! How and Jesus, because what else do you need if you have the Holy Spirit, right? WRONG. The irrational not to trust in The Lord’s generosity Lord has pretty much stamped that across my and faithfulness. Matthew 7:7 tells us all we have to do is ask and it will be given to us. forehead since I got to Fredericksburg six Knock and the door will be opened. The months ago (have I been with you that long already?? Time flies when you’re having fun). Lord’s love is extravagant. It is beyond anything we can even comprehend. And we can’t fix ourselves up to be worthy of it. If we So now let’s talk about what the Lord has taught me about fixing this proclivity of mine could, we wouldn’t need Jesus, and let me tell to keep to myself. He has placed me smack you, I certainly need Jesus. dab in the middle of a congregation full of the As I learn more about how to be part of a most amazing, kind and welcoming people.

Yes. Here. At FUMC. You have embraced me community and how to let people in, I’m finding that my prayer life is strengthened. and made Fredericksburg feel like home to I’m letting God in, too. I’m inviting Him into me. some dark corners of my heart that I’ve tried Our own media ministry director, Kenny to cover up in the past. I’m more intentional Vaughn, somehow talked me into giving up about pushing outside of my comfort zone, hours and hours of my precious “me” time to and it’s allowed God to use my vulnerability be part of the tech crew at the Fredericksburg for His glory. And that, friends, is a beautiful Theater Company, which has been a whole thing. other set of abundant blessings in my new life

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NOTES FROM UPCOMING COMUNION

RAIL OFFERINGS

May - Belize Mission Trip June - Nepal Earthquake Relief July - Habitat for Humanity

THANK YOU to all who gathered & prepared a dish for the wonderful time of fellowship & for allowing us to share about all that God’s doing among the Antandroy people in Madagascar! Your church continues to be a blessing to our family as you support us through your gifts and your prayers.

Please keep us in your prayers as we travel back to Madagascar for another three years and pray for Phoebe and Emma as they return to Kenya to continue their schooling. We look forward to the next time we can be with you. Until then may we all continue to serve Him. Love The Hailes Family - Adam, Suzie, Phoebe, Emma, Baylee and River 19

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Thanks to everyone who contributed to the Missions Clothing Drive. It was a huge success! We almost filled the church trailer!

UPDATE FROM

the Whitings

called me from school one afternoon and asked if we would be interested in a fter almost 11 years in the Balkans, transfer? Her company has 36 schools our time here seems to be coming to around the world, and in conjunction with intentions of recommitment or an end. As you know, in our last update we said there was more to share, terminations comes the possibility of so here we go. After a difficult year with transfers. Brian looked at each of the the passing of our parents and some team schools, and at first we were only issues on the field, we found ourselves in interested in our neighboring country Bosnia. a position to make some personal decisions. Our first Although the school thought was, how After a difficult year with the encouraged listing can we best be passing of our parents and some multiple locations if used to bring His for a transfer, team issues on the field, we found looking glory? we did not do so. ourselves in a position to make Weeks later, we did Since last fall, G some personal decisions. Our first manage to find one has been pressing other location in Brian to return to thought was, how can we best be Central Asia that using the gifts he used to bring His glory? would fit our gifts and has been given. vision; and was very Brian recognized much within the spirit and goals of the that his gifts are best utilized in concert team we serve with back home (but we with others. Working alone on the field didn’t list it on the form). But that school doesn’t allow for synergy and actually was a long shot. tends to lessen the effects of the gifts he has. With this in mind, the time to We received news from Cynthia’s school recommit to Cynthia’s job arrived. that there were no positions in Bosnia.

Through pryer and lengthy conversation Without them knowing we had another we came to the conclusion that continuing option, they asked if she would be in the same path was not the way to go. interested in Central Asia? This sparked our interest, but they have many schools Knowing we would not have Cynthia’s salary next year helped us to better walk in Central Asia and we are really only interested in one. Brian had contacted our in faith, but was really scary too. Cyndi

Moving Forward—May 2015

A

“

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organization and spoken to the area leader, who happens to live in the city we are interested in, and found he is looking for help to move forward with two families on the ground and two more arriving this summer. After some good skype calls we were encouraged, but also knew the chances were slim that a position in this one school would be available.

thoughts of possibly returning to the U.S., moving alone to a new area in Montenegro, or giving ourselves over to His leading. In His faithfulness, He provided His answer to us.

Please pry for us: With this change we will continue under our sending organization, PI. We will have an area leader and partners in the same city. We are excited to partner with an NGO for humanitarian work with You guessed it, they offered Cynthia orphans and under-employed; and to positions in two cities in our country of continue to make Disciple makers. We interest. One position fit her to a “tee”, but it was in a city where we would have will continue to walk in faith and trust in to be working alone once again. But there his financial provisions through our was one position in the city we had hoped friends in the states. Please continue with us in this next season. for, but it wasn’t an age group Cyndi really likes to teach, but she was willing to Brian will be traveling to Central Asia for do it for the rest of our family. We two weeks (March 7-22). This time will responded with interest about the one position. About a week later we received allow him to meet with the area leader an official letter stating, “We are sorry to and future teammates, as well as scope out the land. inform you, but the position (we had spoken about) was no longer available.

In the months ahead we have so much to We would like to offer you a different do. The battle rages in our head and position and age group (one of Cynthia’s hearts to stay present in the work that He favorite grades to teach).” Along with the is doing around us, and to contend with package came the offer to allow our the sharing of our physical possessions children to attend this school for free, with others. answering one of those difficult questions for workers of how to care for our kids Jr. We have also been going through stages of grieving the loss of moms, feelings of and Sr. High school education on the leaving our current location that we field. It also would allow Brian much more freedom in his schedule having the thought we’d live in for years to come, kids at school during the day, as well as a finding a way to fix our car’s broken transmission, and dealing with some much needed group of people to work family illnesses. We are very encouraged along side of. and are in awe as He continues to Per the company Cynthia’s works for, we orchestrate our lives. It is a good place to only had 24 hours to respond with a yes be and we are thankful for those of you or no. This happened on the same day who labor with us. May we walk in the Brian’s mom slipped into a comma and good works that He has prepared for us. then passed the next day. We were scrambling to buy tickets for him to head In His Love, to Texas to be with his mom and family, Brian and Cynthia but also needed to make a decision. We Whitinggang6@gmail.com decided that He had opened the door, and because we are a little slow at times, He *some words have been changed to protect to protect the Whiting’s security not only opened the door, He walked us through step by step. We had faced 21

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Sara and Joey Espinoza (daughter and son-in -law of Gary Margburger) and their three children, have been serving in Nicaragua as FUMC-supported missionaries at a Young Life camp situated on a large coffee plantation. The income from that coffee is used to fund scholarships, providing kids who wouldn’t be able to afford it otherwise an opportunity to go to camp and learn more about Jesus. After spending seven months in Nicaragua with his sister and her family, Josh Marburger was recruited as a marketing representative for the coffee sales.

How does this connect back to FUMC, you ask? This means that we will have premium, fresh coffee that was harvested, roasted and bagged in Nicaragua available in our Fellowship Hall every fourth Sunday of the month, which means your next chance to purchase coffee at FUMC will be Sunday, May 23rd. The suggested donation for each bag of coffee is $12, and all profits go toward camp scholarships, as there is no middle man to share profits with. One bag sends one child to camp for one day.

This is good news for us (who doesn’t love fresh, central American coffee??), but even better news for the many kids who will have an opportunity to hear about Jesus as a result of this program.

As Gary states on his website, “when you purchase this coffee, know that you are not only getting exceptional coffee, but you are helping change lives — not only the lives of the many Nicaraguan kids, who may be getting a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but also the lives of the workers and their families, who farm and harvest the coffee.”

For more information, you can visit the following websites: http://marburgerorchard.com/ http://beyondbeanscoffee.com/ http://www.facebook.com/ LaFincaVidaJoven http://www.younglife.org/Pages/ default.aspx fredumc.org

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women, we are the backbone of the family. We are the nurturers to people who aren’t even Can you tell me about Wonderstruck family, you know our friends and our and why it stuck out to you? coworkers. So I was looking around and I was like why are these women so hungry and no Today, in today’s society we become one’s feeding them. And I wanted to feed. so numb to everything. I mean we’re That’s part of my nurturing: I wanted to nurture these women. And, you know, I kinda bombarded with the news, we’re sat back and I watched and I waited to see who bombarded with stories from our family and our friends, you just kind of become was going to step up, and I just kept feeling this call that was saying “I’m calling you step numb to the world. And one of the things I up, so you need to step up.” And I argued with really liked about Wonderstruck is that she God. I was like no, you know, I’ve already pinpointed some very specific things like Sabbath, and prayer and even lamenting, and it done this before. I burned myself out on it. And was “let’s look at these things, and let’s look at he was like nope. You’re refreshed. It’s time to step up. And I wanted to just give just a little the wonder of these things.”

And I liked bit of myself to this church. that it kind of took this veil off of our eyes, and it was like look at what God has created. Stop being so What do you think of the consumed with everything, direction that we [the and start looking at what he class] has gone so far? has set forth for us. And what I wanted with this bible First off I am AMAZED at study, especially being the how much the women are first one that I’ve done here, sharing and how much was for it to be an awakening. I wanted to they’re willing to talk to wake the women up. To me, I can’t move each other in class.

I’ve been in bible studies forward in my spiritual life unless I’m awake. where it’s taken six-seven weeks to get to the And that’s what Wonderstruck did for me when point where we are as a class.

And I feel that I read the book, because I read the book first. It was like that jolt, like that first cup of coffee in this group, if there was another bible study offered, that this group would carry on as a the morning. And that’s why I picked group. It’s great because we have this wide Wonderstruck: because I wanted to wake the range, you know, we have women that are in women up. their twenties and women that are...I’m not gonna say how old they are because I don’t want to get in trouble! But we have this wide Is that part of why you felt called to range of experiences, and one of the beautiful do a bible study here? things that I’m witnessing is it doesn’t matter your age, it doesn’t matter your economic status, it doesn’t matter your life experiences, we all have the same urge. And that is to grow Yeah because you know I talked to a closer to God and to be what he has called us to couple women here, and it was like they were hungry for something, but be. And what I love and what I’m seeing with these women is that they’re getting it. They’re they didn’t know what they were understanding each other even though they hungry for. And my passion is women’s ministry. I love women’s ministry, because as come from different worlds, and I love that. I

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think these women, I mean we need to watch out. They can be a force to be reckoned with, and they can do some things in this church, and in this community and in each other’s lives that are just going to be awe inspiring. And I love that I’m just playing this teeny tiny part in that.

Q A

What was your expectation or hope going into teaching here? For the women and for yourself.

It feels like it’s who I am. It’s like putting on your most comfortable pair of jeans. I don’t get nervous. There’s no anxiety. It just feels like it’s the most natural thing in the world for me, and it has forced me, in a good way, to have a stronger relationship with God. There’s a scripture in the bible that talks about how teachers are held to a higher standard, and I take that very, very, very seriously. What I try to do is, I try to be as real as I possibly can, and show them that God loves me flaws and all. What it has allowed me to do is realize that God really does love me, flaws and all. So I’m teaching these women, but at the same time I’m teaching myself.

My first hope was that if I taught a class, other women would get excited and want to teach classes. So I could basically get the ball rolling and hopefully create other teachers, so then we would have more than one bible study. It wasn’t just the same person doing it every time.

Someone would step up and say I can do this, and I would just be in the background helping them facilitate. Because I didn’t have that, you know, I didn’t have anyone helping me; I was just doing what I wanted to do. My expectation for myself… I honestly didn’t go into it expecting anything for myself. Which is interesting because I’ve actually gotten a lot out of it. But I just honestly did not go into this for self, I went into it because I love this church, and I love the women of this church, and I want them to be successful, and I want them to take leadership roles. I want to empower them. I didn’t go into it for anything for me.

Q A

Q A

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How has teaching impacted you?

Did you expect that going into it?

No. When I first started teaching, gosh it was five years ago, six years ago, my very first class I taught, it was a bible class called Made to Crave by Lysa Terkeurst, and I just went into because I was friends with the head of women’s ministry for the church. And she was like I need a bible study teacher, you’re funny, you seem to be really solid in the Word. I need a teacher, can you do it? And I went into it thinking okay I’m going to do this one time. I’m done. Punched my card saying I’ve done this. You know I grew up a preacher’s kid, my brother is a minister, my mom did women’s ministry for a long time, and I never felt like I was at their standard. But no I didn’t expect to fall in love with it. I expected just to facilitate a class until she got some people who could actually do the job. And then all of a sudden I’m teaching three classes a semester, and it got huge. So I mean no, I did not expect this at all.

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Vol. 2 May 2015

Is there one thing you want them to walk away with at the end of the class?

Hope. Hope to me is the best thing in the entire world. Hope is what gets you through the dark times. Hope is even what gets you through the good times.

It’s the hope of something better out there. Hope that you can make a difference. Hope that tomorrow’s going to be a better day. Hope that these goals that you set for yourself you can achieve. Hope that you can learn more about God and you can share that with others. I just want the women to walk out with hope, and to share that hope with others. Because to me you can tell somebody about your faith all day long.

You can tell somebody about your commitment to your God and to your church. You can talk about that all day. But if you show them that you have hope in your heart, that will pull them in. Because they’ll want to know why you have that. Why do you have hope and I don’t? That’s what I want these women to walk away with.

Q

How would you describe your teaching style?

A

One of my things that I try to create in the class is a very safe environment. I was kind of laughed at because I have all these rules for the class…and we start the class with three deep breaths because I want them to just wipe away all the garbage.

Because when you take away all the garbage, and the “who said what,” and “who’s doing this,” and the “why are they looking at me that way” and you focus on what is real, which is how can we see others through Christ’s eyes, then we can make a difference. But sitting there and worrying about all the other things going on in the world isn’t going to make a difference if you’re not Christ-centered.

Q A

Do you have a favorite moment, or moments?

are, but on who we are, which is God’s children.

Q A

Is there anything else you want to say about this bible study, or anything else on your mind?

The only parting thing I would say is when you’re going into a bible study, remember that while the teacher is there to facilitate and to help move conversation along, as a women or a man or a participant in a class, it is your job as well to be active. When you’re active in the class, it helps the teacher feel like their time is being appreciated. Just coming into class and sitting back and watching everything happen…you can’t. You have to be a part of things. It was said to me not that long ago, I was telling someone that I’ve been going to this church and I’m just really not getting anything out of it. And the question was asked to me: “What are you putting into it?” What are you expecting? Are you expecting it to be like this is a waste of my time? Are you thinking well I didn’t do my homework so I’m not going to understand anything, and it means I can’t share so I’m just going to sit back here and be quiet?

You know, are you walking in with a bad attitude from the day and it’s going to carry over into the class? I guess what I’m getting at is when you’re in that class, be present. Leave all the trials and the troubles of the day behind and just focus on getting filled. Just take that hour, and allow God to just fill you up. And to give you inspiration.

Participate. Be active. Help create a safe environment. Help create an environment of love. And if anybody wants to know what that looks like, they can come on Monday nights at 6:30, and they can see a group of women who are just present, and who love and who create a safe environment for other women. And that is the most beautiful thing you will ever see in your entire life. Oh and bring your teacher chocolate.

One of them was yesterday when *a member shared her story about a quilt, and it wasn’t just her sharing it, it was the women’s reactions. The love and the compassion in that room was like a thick fog. You could just feel it all over you. Another one would be my ability to share some things about my past and not feel like they looked at me any different, or in a negative light. They may have looked at me different and seen why I am the way I am, but it wasn’t negative. That was my moment of okay this is going to be a safe place. I’m creating a safe place. I figured if I was vulnerable first, other women would be vulnerable as well, and that has happened. That to me is the greatest thing. The love and support you can already see after just three classes would probably be my favorite thing. And I guess the other thing I love about this class that’s not just one moment, but little moments, is that I can just be quirky, and I can be me, and the women just laugh. What I hope that I’m instilling is just be yourself. Be authentic. If they don’t like you, okay, like yourself enough for everyone. I love when those moments happen *Name was changed to protect member’s privacy. when I like do something crazy, or something I don’t think is crazy, and they laugh. I also love that women come comfortable. It’s not a dress Selena began working for FUMC up, it’s “if you want to wear pajama pants, as in November as our part-time financial secretary. She has a long as they cover everything, I don’t care, come passion for women’s ministry, wearing pajama pants.” If you don’t want to and will begin another women’s wear shoes while you’re in class, more than bible class on Proverbs 31 on likely your teacher’s not wearing shoes. I LOVE July 13th. that. I love that we’re not caught up on what we fredumc.org 26

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THIS month

at fumc

Special Events Community Mission Day May 2nd all day Gillespie County

*contact Jim Ryan at 990– 2916 for more info

Cookies for Kairos

May 3rd from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

FUMC Kitchen

Belize Bake Sale Fundraiser

Confirmation Sunday May 24th at 9 a.m.

FUMC Sanctuary

Senior Recognition Sunday May 31st at 9 a.m.

FUMC Sanctuary

Children Pioneer Club Final Meeting

May 9th from 9 a.m.—3 p.m.

Main Street outside Chase Bank

May 6th After School-5:30 p.m.

Coffee for Camp Sales

May 23rd all day.

May 24th beginning at 9 a.m.

Fellowship Hall

KMA Sea World Trip Children’s Sunday School Sundays 10-11 a.m.

Youth Mystery Event

May 2nd from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Meet in the church parking lot

The Bridge Youth Group

May 6th and 13th in the youth room 5:30 p.m. for middle school 6:30 p.m. for high school

Mission Trip Meetings

May 17th in the youth room 12 p.m. for high school 12:30 p.m. for middle school

The Bridge Party

May 20th from 6-8 p.m.

Youth Room 27

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Women “Wonderstruck” Bible Study Mondays from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Runs through June 2nd Room 6-8

UMW Mission Study

Barbara Dorff will speak on the church and disabilities May 16th beginning at 8:30 a.m.

FUMC Fellowship Hall/Sanctuary

UMW Sunday

Barbara Dorff will give the message May 17th at 9:00 a.m. and 11:10 a.m.

FUMC Sanctuary

Music Music Celebration Sunday

May 3rd at 12 p.m.

Potluck lunch in the Fellowship Hall

Chancel Choir Rehearsal Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

FUMC Sanctuary

Bulletin Prep

We are looking for volunteers to help

prepare bulletins for Sunday morning. We need a team of folks to come in on Friday morning and stuff bulletins and occasionally cut communication cards.

Contact the church office (997-7679) if you're interested in volunteering

Pioneer Club Final Meal

FUMC Sanctuary

Sharon needs your help with the Pioneer club’s final meal for parents!

Several volunteers are needed for simple meal prep/serving/clean up and 20 or so volunteers to make desserts for a dessert bar. Contact Sharon Massey if you can help by calling the church office at 997-7679 or 830-4563697. You can also e-mail her at sharon@fredumc.org

Music Club Concert

Serve on Sundays

Bell Choir Rehearsal Wednesdays at 6 p.m.

FUMC Sanctuary

Praise Team Rehearsal Thursdays at 6 p.m.

May 17th at 3 p.m.

FUMC Sanctuary

Opportunities To Serve Fill-in Receptionist

The office occasionally needs a volunteer to answer the phone, usually on Friday mornings. If you'd like to help, leave your name with Linda in the office at 997-7679.

Sunday Morning Greeters

Looking for an easy way to serve? We need greeters to welcome people as they come in for worship on Sunday mornings and also to man to the Welcome Desk and answer questions for guests (or members!).

Sign up in the Fellowship Hall.

Factory Workers

Want to connect with other church members through service and hospitality?

Join the FUMC “factory.” Their next meeting is May 17th at 6:30 p.m. For more info contact Caroline Eidson (carolineceidson@gmail.com) or Rene Griffin (rrrgriffin@gmail.com)

Need another way to get involved? Sign up to be a lay reader or serve communion on Sunday Mornings.

Contact Linda in the church office to volunteer.

In the Community Heritage Place Help

Heritage Place Retirement is in desperate need of a dishwasher on weekday afternoon from 4-7 and some weekend shifts. If you are interested in the position, please contact Connie Eckhardt at Heritage Place Retirement 96 Frederick Rd - 997-9406

Looking Ahead Jason’s Last Day Ice Cream Social

June 7th from 4-6 p.m.

FUMC Fellowship Hall

Vacation Bible School

June 22nd– June 26th in the evening FUMC

Summer Celebration Sunday/ Welcome for George

June 28th (time to be determined) Lady Bird Johnson Park fredumc.org

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Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

3

4

6

MUSIC CELEBRATION SUNDAY

6:30am Bacon & Eggs GroupGroup-FH 7:30am Child Development Center 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 12:00pm Lunch BunchBunch-Rm 2 5:00pm Trustees Meeting -Rm 12 6:30pm Women's Bible Study 7:00pmBoy Scout Meeting

5 7:00am Men's BreakfastBreakfast-City Cafe 7:30am Child Development Center 8:00am Wonder Workers 9:00am Living Well College 9:30am Prayer Shawl MinistryMinistry-Library 12:00pm Al Anon - Rm 11 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 5:15pm Women's Emmaus Reunion Group 5:30pm Girls Basketball

13

12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 12:00pm Lunch BunchBunch-Rm 2 4:30pm Child Development Board 6:00pm Stephen Ministry Leadership 6:00pm Boy Scouts Parent’s Meeting 6:30pm SPRC Meeting 6:30pm Women's Bible Study

12 7:00am Men's BreakfastBreakfast-City Cafe 7:30am Child Development Center 8:00am Wonder Workers 9:00am Living Well College 9:00am Prayer Shawl MinistryMinistry-Library 11:00 Bazaar Committee Meeting 12:00pm Al Anon - Rm 11 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 5:15pm Women's Emmaus Reunion Group 5:30pm Girls Basketball 5:30pm Mission Committee Meeting

18 6:30am Bacon & Eggs GroupGroup-FH 7:30am Child Development Center 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 12:00pm Lunch BunchBunch-Rm 2 2:00pm Hannah CircleCircle-Rm 2 6:30pm Women's Bible Study 7:00pm Boy Scout Meeting

19 7:00am Men's BreakfastBreakfast-City Cafe 7:30am Child Development Center 8:00am Wonder Workers 9:00am Living Well College 9:00am Prayer Shawl MinistryMinistry-Library 12:00pm Al Anon - Rm 11 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 5:15pm Women's Emmaus Reunion Group 5:30pm Girls Basketball 6:00pm Finance Committee

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26 7:00am Men's BreakfastBreakfast-City Cafe 7:30am Child Development Center 8:00am Wonder Workers 9:00am Living Well College 9:00am Prayer Shawl MinistryMinistry-Library 12:00pm Al Anon - Rm 11 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 5:15pm Women's Emmaus Reunion Group 5:30pm Girls Basketball

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8am Cookies for Kairos 9:00am Contemporary Worship 9:30am Agape Hour 10:00am Sunday School 11:10am Traditional Worship Service 12:00pm Potluck Music Celebration 5:00pm Confirmation Class

11 6:30am Bacon & Eggs GroupGroup-FH 7:30am Child Development Center

10

MOTHER’S DAY 9:00am Contemporary Worship 9:30am Agape Hour 10:00am Sunday School 11:10am Traditional Worship Service 4:00 Scouts 5:00pm Confirmation Class

10:00am Cards for Christ

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UMW SUNDAY 9:00am Contemporary Worship 9:30am Agape Hour 10:00am Sunday School 11:10am Traditional Worship Service 3:00pm Music Club Concert 4:00pm Confirmation Class

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CONFIRMATION SUNDAY

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9:00am Contemporary Worship SENIOR 9:30am Agape Hour RECOGNITION 10:00am Sunday School 11:10am Traditional SUNDAY Worship Service 9:00am Contemporary Worship 4:00 Boy 9:30am Agape Hour Scouts 10:00am Sunday School 11:10am Traditional Worship Service

Memorial Day Church Office Closed 6:30am Bacon & Eggs GroupGroup-FH 10:00am Cards for Christ 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 12:00pm Lunch BunchBunch-Rm 2 6:30pm Stephen Ministry Leadership 7:00pm Boy Scout Meeting

7:30am Child Developm 9:30am Knopp Retirem 10:00am Fredericksburg 12:00pm Alcoholics An 3:30 Pioneer Club/KM 5:30pm Middle School 6:00pm Bell Choir Prac 6:30pm High School Y 7:00pm Chancel Choir

7:30am Child Developm 9:30am Quilters 10:00am Fredericksburg 12:00pm Alcoholics An 3:30 KMA 5:30pm Middle School 6:00pm Bell Choir Prac 6:30pm High School Y 7:00pm Chancel Choir

7:30am Child Developm 10:00am Fredericksburg 10:00am Knopp Retirem 10:30am Knopp Nursin 12:00pm Alcoholics An 12:00pm Diabetic Supp 3:30 KMA 6:00pm The Bridge Yo 6:00pm Bell Choir Prac 6:00pm Wounded War 7:00pm Chancel Choir

7:30am Child Developm 9:30am Windcrest Reti 10:00am Fredericksburg 12:00pm Alcoholics An 6:00pm Bell Choir Prac 7:00pm Chancel Choir

glance May 2015

ment Center ment Social g Nursing Home Sing nonymous MA Youth ctice Youth r Practice

ment Center g Nursing Home Sing nonymous Youth ctice Youth r Practice

ment Center g Nursing Home Sing ment Center Communion ng Home #1 Communion nonymous port Group

outh uth Party ctice rriors r Practice

ment Center irement Communion g Nursing Home Sing nonymous ctice r Practice

Thu

Fri

Sat

1

2

7:30am Child Development Center 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous

9:00am Community Mission Day 9:00am Youth Mystery Event 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous

8 7:30am Child Development Center 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous

9

14 7:30am Child Development Center 9:00am Living Well College 9:00am Chapel Child Development Center 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 5:30pm Girls Basketball 6:00pm Praise Team RehearsalRehearsal-Sanctuary 7:00pm Boy Scout Committee Meeting

15 7:30am Child Development Center 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous

16 8:30am UMW Mission Study 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous

21 7:30am Child Development Center 9:00am Living Well College 9:30am Chapel Child Development Center 9:30am Helen Tainter Circle 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 2:00pm Friendship Circle 5:30pm Girls Basketball 6:00pm Praise Team Rehearsal

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23

7:30am Child Development Center 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous

9:00am Confirmation Retreat 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous

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30

7

7:30am Child Development Center 9:00am Living Well College 9:30am Chapel Child Development Center 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 12:00pm Book Club 5:30pm Girls Basketball 6:00pm Praise Team Rehearsal

7:30am Child Development Center 7:30am Child Development Center 9:00am Living Well College 9:30am Chapel Child Development Center 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 9:30am Heritage Communion 12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous 5:30pm Girls Basketball 6:00pm Praise Team Rehearsal

12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous

12:00pm Alcoholics Anonymous

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Vol. 2 May 2015

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1 Rachael Cole 1 Mikayla McMahon 1 Allen & Pat Spousta 2 Joan Richards 2 Frank & Sandy McGill 3 Skyler Brunson 3 Danielle Hallford 3 Delia Sanchez 3 Thomas Whetstone 3 Dorman & Vicki Schmidt 5 Denise Hawks 6 Greg Andreassian 6 Paul W. Loyd 6 Morgan O’Neil 7 Colton Geistweidt 7 Rita Irons 7 Gary Marburger 7 Levi Shaw 8 John Davies 8 Karl & Ingrid Stengel 9 Rachel Atkins 10 Laura Correa 10 RaPaula Varney 11 Reg Gartner 11 David Fullbrook

11 George & Alice Hahn 21 Robbin Embury 12 David & Gwen Fullbrook 21 Dorothy Pritchett 13 Leslie Correa 21 Cole Smith 13 Laila Correa 22 Jill Elliot 13 Joseph Plocheck 22 Dorothea Mclure 13 Chenoa Schmidt 23 Janet Lindley 14 John Doudna 23 Danny Richardson 14 Nina Pruitt 23 Sharon Wahrmund 14 Marybel Slagle 24 Barry & Joyce Smith 15 Robert Deming 25 Bill & Deborah Wiginton 15 Pat Spousta 26 Britanny Axe 15 Steve & Beverly Allen 26 Larissa Hallford 15 Jim & Janet Lindley 26 Mary Lou Schmidt 16 E.W. Hallford 26 Gail Weich 16 Dennis Phillips 26 Donna White 16 Jim & Sharon McMahon 26 Clay Wiemers 17 Nicholas Craig 27 Ed Graham 17 Barry Smith 27 Cayden Longerhans 17 Christi Traver 27 Marvin Pickens 17 Mac & Ila Burnett 27 Nick & Marge Bennack 19 Rachel Houy 28 Joel & Rene Griffin 19 George Murphy 31 Melva Chancellor 20 Ronald Deskin 31 Anne-Marie Houy 20 Natalie Stafford 31 Troy Wadzeck 21 Tom Anderson 31 David White · Dates and names in bold are anniversaries.

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Vol. 2 May 2015

CONTINUING CONCERNS Nursing Home & OUR Military Retirement Center

Carolyn Allen Ruth Braeutigam Clarence Durst Carol Dwyer Imogene Friedrich Mable Glasgow Edwina Hall Anne Houy Fred Mesch Desmond Sagebiel Pat Scott

Mabel Teschner Romilda Jaimson Audrey Kothmann Norma Peterson Marvin Prochnow Marvel Pospisil Auralia Schmid Melrose Sultemeier Jimmie Tree Olivia Wissemann

OUR Missionaries

Bosnia: Brian & Cynthia Eastern Asia: Misti Ecuador: Ecuador: Tim & Daina Madagascar: Adam & Suzie, Phoebe, Emma, Baylee & River Nicaragua: Sara & Joey, Risa, Micah & Jace Philippines: Marsha Connect Online! www.fredumc.org

Scott Benfield Khristy Brazell Roland Cleveland Adam Duecker Gary L. Goin Dylan Guess Jeffrey Haas Houston Haley Chance Harling Wacey Holladay Mark Klaerner Bryce Klein Jason Loving Alec Maples Kari McAnally Quentin Moellering

James Muncy Dennis Ray Phillips Chris Pieper Steven Ramsey Tyler Remini Jeffrey Schmidt Cody Segner Jason Smith Bruce Stafford Perry Waters Charlie Watson Ash Westerfield Weston Williams Dara Wydler Steve York Joshua Weaver

Here I am.

Send me.

-Isaiah 6:8

We also want to acknowledge Jana and Leigh, who are serving the Japanese in Detroit .We support them when possible, and hope to ad them to our regular support list in the future. www.twitter.com/fbgumc

http://vimeo.com/groups/187577

www.facebook.com/pages/Fredericksburgwww.facebook.com/pages/Fredericksburg-UnitedUnited-MethodistMethodist-Church/217593975003835

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Fredericksburg United Methodist Church 1800 North Llano Fredericksburg TX 78624-2917 **************************************

OUR STAFF Ministers-The Congregation

Amy O’Neil-Director of Child Development Center Dr. J. Jason Fry—Senior Pastor Judy Hickerson—Organist Rev. J. Sidney Spiller—Associate Pastor Linda Klein—Office Manager Don Doss—Director of Music Ministries Selena Hendrix-Financial Secretary Joel Griffin-Director of Youth Ministries Florie Hernandez-Custodian Sharon Massey-Director of Children’s Ministries Kenneth Vaughan-Director of Media Ministries Tammy Amerson-Wilson RN- Wesley Nurse Tricia Small- Director of Communications