930north Fall 2017 Issue

930north

A P UBLICATIO N OF F IRST U NIT ED MET HODIST C HURC H

PERSONALLY COMMITTED

GOD + SELF + OTHERS matthew 22:36-40

TRANSFORMING LIVES BY ENGAGING OUR MEMBERS TO CELEBRATE & SHARE GOD’S LOVE IN JESUS CHRIST

[LOVE SELF] WITHOUT CONDITIONS

FEATURES

A LETTER FROM THE PASTOR.............................5 WHY I SERVE

UMW Service Award recipients talk about the transformative work of loving others...............................6

FLOOD WATER, DESERT FATHER

Stuart Gilley discusses the need for retreat and reflection in the midst of life’s storms...............................................9

MORE THAN JUST A MISSION TRIP

Senior High youth share how the summer mission trips impact their lives as well as the lives of those whom they serve...........................................................................10

REACHING OUT ACROSS THE AISLE

Jennifer Carwile and other FUMC members are building bridges across the racial, denominational, and locational divisions in our city.......................................................12

A DEEP DIVE INTO ROMANS

Participants emphasize the benefits of the upcoming Dicipleship Retreat.......................................................14

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS

Sharing our joys and sorrows together...........................16

CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS.................17

Abby Rossnagel volunteering at our summer Vacation Bible School, getting tackled by two rambunctious little guys in the gym during playtime!

WHO WE ARE & WHAT WE’RE ABOUT: We are a worshipping community that seeks to provide a place of belonging for persons to experience the Living God. Here are some of our core values:

First United Methodist Church of Baton Rouge

• LOVE3: We are personally committed to loving God, loving ourselves and loving others.

• WE OFFER JESUS CHRIST TO EVERYONE • GOT BRAINS? We offer Christ to people who have questions and doubts, creating a space for thinking people to come to faith.

• WE ARE PASSIONATE about making a place of hospitality for people already claiming the Christian faith, and nominal/non-religious people seeking to find out more about our faith.

• WE EXPLORE fresh expressions of worship through new, contemporary styles of music.

• WE LIKE TECH! You don’t have to leave your smart phone at the door. Use it to read Scripture, connect with others, and plug-in to the external content on our website.

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• YOU ARE WELCOME & YOU ARE LOVED! We are inclusive. No matter who you are, you you have a home at First.| www.firstmethodist.org | Fall 2017 930north

Marriage

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WORKSHOP

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Hold Me Tight© for Couples

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AUGUST 25 & 26, 2017

V d c t

A TWO DAY WORKSHOP FOR COUPLES August 25 from 6:00-9:30 PM and August 26 from 8:30 AM-5:30 PM First United Methodist Church, Baton Rouge, LA Nursery is available for kindergarten and younger Reservations & payment required by August 10

PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOP FACILITATORS- Patt Aptaker, Ph.D.,

Tanya Radecker RN, LPC-S, NCC, Steven Bordelon, LCSW, Dee Adams, Ph.D., LPC, LMFT, Michael Cascio, LCSW, and Debbie Wray, LCSW (all trained and/or certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy)

INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE TOGETHER-

The best time to work on your relationship is when it is going well! This educational workshop will create a change in your relationship that can improve communication, intimacy and connection.

• STOP repeating the same argument over and over • UNDERSTAND your partner and yourself better • ENHANCE safety, deeper connections and intimacy • Based on Dr. Sue Johnson’s book “Hold Me Tight” and “Emotionally Focused Therapy,” the most effective, researched couples counseling We respect your privacy. The workshop is designed so that you will have personal time to have private conversations with your partner. You are NOT expected to share personal details with others.

SPACE IS LIMITED so please register by August 10. Cost is $300/couple ($325 if registered after

August 10.) Checks can be dropped off in the church office, made payable to FUMC and please include “marriage workshop” in the memo line. Participants are invited join us for supper from 5:00-6:00 PM on August 25; a light breakfast from 7:30-8:30 AM on August 26 and www.firstmethodist.org lunch provided by Jason’s Deli.| 930north | Fall 2017

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Senior Pastor Rev. Brady Whitton Associate Pastors Rev. Pattye Hewitt Rev. Becky Poor Rev. Fernie Rivera Pastor Emerius Rev. Dr. Don Cottrill Deacon Rev. Ann Trousdale Editor & Designer Amy Book Contributing Writers Ann Wilson Steve Schultz Bess Mitchell Dr. Glenn Kidder Stuart Gilly Davis Copeland Jacob Barnes Jennifer Carwile Art & Norma Roberts Greg Cotter

930north Magazine is published quarterly for the Baton Rouge community and friends of First United Methodist Church by the FUMC Office of Communications.

OUR MISSION: Transforming lives by engaging our members to celebrate and share God’s love in Jesus Christ.

ON THE COVER: TOP: Youth Group members pose for a picture after a day of service at Bernard Terrace Elementary School, repainting the mural and lines on their basketball court. BOTTOM LEFT: Senior High Mission Team traveled to Oljato, Utah; shown repainting the cross on the roof of Oljato United Methodist Church. BOTTOM RIGHT: Senior High Mission team members, Lauren Hudson & Noah Stiltner making friends during their trip to Oljato, Utah.

WHAT IS H.Y.P.E? There are as many as 13,000 single parent families within a six-mile radius of FUMC. Many students in our community need help with basic education and life skills. They also need something constructive to do after school.

FUMC created an after-school student enrichment program that offers tutoring, music lessons, art, sports, and nutrition.

Helping Youth Prepare for Excellence also engages the talents of our members and makes fuller use of our facilities.

Students from Bernard Terrace Elementary School come to FUMC to participate in the program. Members of FUMC come every afternoon

HAVE A STORY TO TELL? Email: abook@firstmethodist.org WANT TO KNOW MORE? Contact us at (225) 383-4777 www.firstmethodist.org SEND COMMENTS TO: Amy Book 930 North Boulevard Baton Rouge, LA 70802 abook@firstmethodist.org SEND CHANGE OF ADDRESS TO: toni@firstmethodist.org

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to volunteer their time by demonstrating the love of God to students, assisting them with their homework and sharing their own unique talents with the students. Those talents include dancing, cooking and microbiology lessons, among many others. There are multiple opportunities for you to take part in this growing ministry. Don’t be shy, take that step, and come see for yourself how spending time with these students will impact your life just as much as it impacts theirs.

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A LETTER FROM THE PASTOR

D e ar B rot her s & Sist er s in C h ri st, I remember like it was yesterday…

Back in 1986 a co-worker who attended the same church I did invited me to help her teach the Preschool Sunday School class. As a very new Christian myself and new to this particular church, the thought of saying “yes” stopped me cold. After mulling it over in my heart and mind, I offered her this: “I’ll help the children glue and glitter their crafts; I will bring doughnuts and apple juice, and I will take them to the restroom if they need to go, but PLEASE don’t ask me to lead a lesson or pray!”

While I chuckle now at this whole encounter, the truth is that I began to live out servanthood by simply putting a toe in the water. I was nervous about getting something wrong and I was very unsure of my ‘worthiness’ to serve in this capacity, but I answered that little nudge, that still, small voice that came through my friend, inviting me to something new and wonderful. Ever since that day so long ago, I find myself regularly thanking God for the opportunities that continue to unfold to serve staff members, the FUMC congregation, our community and wider world.

In this edition of 930North you will read beautiful stories of people who serve in the name of Jesus. From embarking on mission trips to sharing with brothers and sisters of another denomination worship and fellowship, these people have entered into the servanthood life–not for self-gratification or recognition by others, but to bring honor and glory to God.

“Whoever serves must do so with the strength that God supplies, so that God may be glorified in all things through Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 4:11 Whether you are younger or older; mature in your faith or getting to know Jesus for the first time, I want to encourage you to step into the life-giving waters of servanthood and begin to change the world with us. With God’s strength, confidence will grow and soon you will be diving into the glorious ocean of taking part in mission trips, helping to rebuild homes, tutoring children, visiting the ill and lonely–the list goes on and on!

My heart is full as I witness with my own eyes acts of service, and also by knowing that many more are taking place unbeknownst to me. In the Gospel of Mark we read Jesus’ words: “And he sat down and he said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” My prayer is that you find that place of service that not only fills you, but better yet, meets a real need, in our real world where people are hurting and lost. By doing so you truly are helping to build God’s Kingdom here upon the earth.

With much love for you, Rev. Pattye

LEFT: Rev. Pattye & Tasha Whitton serving in the “story room” last month at Vacational Bible School. RIGHT: FUMC also hosts a VBS for residents of The Haven at Windemere. Sandra King & Rev. Pattye serving Holy Communion to a resident during VBS.

www.firstmethodist.org | Fall 2017 | 930north

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WHY I SERVE

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[LOVE SELF] WITHOUT CONDITIONS

IP EA WA R D REC

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United Methodist Women (UMW) is the largest denominational faith organization for women with approximately 800,000 members whose mission is fostering spiritual growth, developing leaders and advocating for justice. Members raise up to $20 million each year for programs and projects related to women, children and youth in the U.S. and countries around the world. Each year the UMW of First Methodist recognize and honor members who have served through our church and in the community. Congratulations to the 2017 UMW Service Award recipients: Bess Mitchell, Ann Wilson, Fran & Steve Shurtz, and Glenn Kidder! Thank you for your service and your stories.

BY ANN WILSON

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myself, WOW, this is where I want to be. This is where I can make a difference by serving God and others! Being a very shy person, it was difficult for me to step out in faith. Interacting with people for the first time can be so hard. I went to my first UMW meeting not knowing a single person. Everyone was so welcoming and I knew I had found my place. My place where I could make a difference, through faith, missions and love of others in our community and around the world. Now, I love serving and have found many opportunities in our church and beyond! Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS), as a Sunday door greeter, and cooking meals Being a very shy person, for Revive 225 mission teams are it was difficult for a few of the ways I have served. me in the beginning I feel so grateful to have so many to step out in faith. opportunities to put my love and faith into action in through our –ANN WILSON, church.

SHY WARRIOR FOR WOMEN

aith, Hope, Love in Action.” These four words have great meaning for me. They are the mission statement of the United Methodist Women.

As a lifelong Methodist, I had put my faith journey on hold as I pursued my career and life. I attended church services infrequently; I walked in the front door of the church and left as soon as the service was over through the back door! I didn’t really think about how faith fit into my everyday life. I relied on my own power to get me through the days and weeks. As time marched on, my willpower began to fail me. Events began to occur in my life that I had absolutely no way of controlling: cancer, the deaths of my parents, then family and job problems. I felt so alone. I was losing hope and I knew something was missing in my life. I began to feel a small tapping on my shoulder that soon became louder, and clearer! I knew that what was missing was my relationship with Christ. I had put this relationship on the back burner and I knew it was time to renew this bond.

I returned to the church where I was married and had attended with my mother before she passed away. I wanted to become engaged in the church in a way I had never considered. I attended worship one morning and it happened to be the annual UMW Service. I thought to

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Through my work in UMW, I was asked to participate on the UMW Executive Committee as the Membership, Nurture and Outreach Coordinator, then as UMW Vice President at FUMC. Through this position I was asked to serve UMW at the District Level as the Vice President! I have met so many faith-filled women in our church and other churches around our district. I have been truly blessed by each of these beautiful women. They have become a large part of my life and I consider them to be family! God really sent me on a journey and I am so very grateful.

(Continued on the next page)

[LOVE OTHERS] WHY I SERVE When I was told I was receiving a Service Award, I was so surprised! What an honor and certainly one that I feel is undeserved. The honor is always to be given to our wonderful Lord and Savior who deserves all the glory! He is the one who guides me on my journey of faith and service which I know is to be continued at the church that I have come to know and love! So, thank you God, for showing me how to put my faith, hope and love into action.

BY STEVE SCHULTZ

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aving been raised in the Roman Catholic Church, I was completely unfamiliar with any Protestant faith, including Methodism, until introduced to it by my wife, Fran, a lifelong Methodist. I recall being fascinated by the freedom of belief and the clear exhortation to service, which my former theology seemed to have relegated to the clergy and the nuns.

The opportunity to serve others more directly appealed to me.

Interested in joining the United Methodist Women? Tracie Wharton, UMW President at First Methodist would love to get you connected with a group!

Give her a call at 387-8362, or email traciew@umf.org.

confidence, skills, and the development of sound service ethics. Later, working with adult teams enhanced my own views toward service.

Following the disaster of Hurricane Katrina, Fran & I were part of the small team of FUMC members who organized Project NOAH and began to take the ASP principles to the people of our own state, whose needs were abruptly made similar to the many families we had assisted in Appalachia.

There is nothing in my Later, my love of working With my background with young people led me to life more rewarding than in landscape design and become a Sunday school teachhelping people in need construction, plus a familiarity er for middle–and high–school with the basics of a stable with tools and building, I found students. The shift from physical existence.

United Methodist Men to be development to spiritual develan immediate fit–one where I opment led me to improve my –STEVE SCHULTZ, could explore and expand my own relationship with God in the TOOL-WIELDING SERVANT newfound spirituality through process of guiding the youth. study and service. I spent over 20 years helping with work days, barbeques, and many, many In recent years I have tried to remain as engaged as UMM efforts. possible in the service areas of our church: Revive 225, Cafe 930 and other church programs, as I am able to parIn the late ‘80s Rev. Phil Woodland introduced us to ticipate. I find that being a part of a vibrant church comthe Appalachia Service Project (ASP), and my view of munity is of particular value in learning to seek God’s service changed markedly. ASP provided me with the love and grace in the widest variety of opportunities. opportunity to directly meet and work alongside those whom I was helping. There is nothing in my life more I have found that, over time, my spiritual views have rewarding than helping people in need with the basics of been broadened, strengthened, and invigorated through a stable existence. The ASP motto, “warmer, safer, drier” service work. Believing as I do that God is present in has helped me realize that for many people, even safety all of us, my service on behalf of the United Methodist and simple comfort are beyond their reach. Originally Church has brought me closer to, and enriched my reworking with church youth groups at ASP, I found great lationship with Him as well as many wonderful people joy and satisfaction in helping young people grow in who share His grace with me.

Want to serve? Alex Byo, Director of Missions and Revive225 would love to talk to you!

Give him a call at 383-4777, ext. 252 or email alex@firstmethodist.org. You can also find out more about the opportunities to serve through FUMC at www.firstmethodist.org. www.firstmethodist.org | Fall 2017 | 930north

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[LOVE OTHERS] WHY I SERVE (CONTINUED)

BY BESS MITCHELL

I

grew up in a family that attended worship and Sunday School each week. This set a strong foundation for me in adulthood. Becoming a member of United Methodist Women made me more aware of service work. Through UMW I found myself participating in studies and reaching out to others.

And, in doing so, I was growing closer to God.

Today I still send cards to the homebound members of that church. Some of them I know; some I don’t. It doesn’t matter, because I am sharing God’s love with one of his children. I had no idea when I began sending cards and praying for the homebound that 30 years later I would still be doing it!

Here at First Methodist, Carolyn Carnahan volunteered to I kept thinking they need to send cards and I offered to help; know that someone cares. not knowing where that offer would lead me. One morning –BESS MITCHELL, At our previous church during Sunday School, some prayer HUMBLE HOMEBOUND HERO there was no care ministry for concerns were mentioned. When homebound members who could I got home, I realized I couldn’t no longer participate in church. The thought of those remember who to pray for! I wondered how many wonderful people losing their connection to the church, others had the same problem.

I offered to send a list broke my heart. I kept thinking they need to know that to everyone who wanted it.

I was being given another someone cares! I got a list from the church office and opportunity to give and receive God’s love by serving began my ministry. Each week I sent them a card. As others!

These ministries have helped me as much (and I did this, I realized that I was touching the lives of sometimes more) as those they serve.

I am proud to these people and they were changing mine, too. One know that because of my experiences and example, my afternoon when Bill and I got home, we found a man daughter has found the joy in serving others and loving knocking on our door. When we approached him, he God! I hope that her children will follow her example, said he just had to come and see who was sending like she followed mine. him those cards. He lived alone and rarely had visitors.

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BY DR. GLENN KIDDER, DDS learned from my parents that I should go to and support my church, and help others when possible. Going to Sunday services and writing a check is fairly easy for most of us. That is the least we should do.

provided eight million dollars of free medical and dental care for the working uninsured in this area. As past president of Cortana Kiwanis with 35 years of perfect attendance, I’m proud of my club, whose motto is, “...improving the world one child and one community at a time.”

But WE are the church, and to me I am so blessed to be a dentist! Every finding ways to serve others is what God work day I have a chance to help people really calls us to do. Most of my in pain. God has put wonderful service has not been directly through WE are the church, and mentors in my path, and I know that FUMC, but our church keeps me they expect me help others. I try to to me, finding ways to motivated to serve in other ways. help other dentists when teaching at serve others is what Being part of a covenant group for the LSU School of Dentistry and The God really calls us to do.

20 years, attending retreats, and Pankey Institute in Florida where I helping with Revive 225 (FUMC’s –DR. GLENN KIDDER, serve as a lead faculty. In addition urban home repair ministry) keep to teaching technical dentistry, the DENTIST & DO-GOODER me in touch with our wonderful institute also teaches keeping one’s congregation. Serving with several life balanced between love, worship, work, and play. This Kairos prison ministry teams really opened my heart to gives me a regular opportunity to inspire other dentists how the Holy Spirit can move in the most unlikely places. in excellence and ethics. I feel the spirit of God working Inspired by Leadership Baton Rouge, I was instrumental in the start up of The Greater BR Community Clinic which

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through me in all that I do and I am humbled to receive this award.

[LOVE SELF] FLOOD WATER, DESERT FATHER

FLOOD WATER DESERT FATHER

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or many, the lyrics of this timeless song say it all… “summertime and the livin’ is easy”. That is the case at the Gilly house anyway! With kids out of school, all the structure and routine of the school year goes out the window. Long days turn into late nights, day camps turn into sleepovers, and weekends become 4 days long. But for me, “easy” might be the last word I would use to describe my summers lately.

Unfortunately, I don’t get a “summer break” and still have to go to work. My stress level is higher, as I find myself being torn between work obligations and wanting to spend time with my family. In the summer we are also out of town more on Sundays. Between the challenge of losing my normal schedule, and missing the weekly worship experience more often than usual, I feel I am furthest from my faith life during the summer months. So, when someone suggested that I attend the men’s retreat last July, I jumped at the opportunity to get spiritually re–centered.

Two weeks before the retreat in August of 2016, the floodgates opened in Baton Rouge...literally. Our community witnessed one of the most devastating natural disasters since Hurricane Katrina. Thousands of people, including many members of our congregation, lost their homes and their possessions.

FUMC was a crucial part of recovery efforts: creating a donation station for clothing and necessities, sending out work teams to help with the demolition process, and cooking for teams of volunteers. The leadership team considered cancelling the retreat, wondering if it was appropriate to leave our community in this time of need.

Personally, having never attended a retreat, I was leaning towards not going because I felt like my time could be better spent helping those affected. After much prayerful consideration, it was decided that the retreat should happen. And I ultimately decided to go as planned, and I am so glad that I did!

I can only speak for myself, but would imagine that many of the other men in attendance would agree that the retreat couldn’t have come at a better time. It was at the tail end of a naturally crazy summer for me and our community was in crisis mode; most of us were leaving

BY STUART GILLY work at the end of the day to cook meals at the church or tear out sheetrock at someone’s home. I was running on fumes. Exhaustion was an understatement. A physical, mental and especially a spiritual recharge was exactly what I needed. The fellowship and worship offered by the retreat did just that. I got to know other men that I hadn’t ever met before, whom I now call friends. It also helped me to take a step back and remind myself that if I put God first, all the rest would fall into place, even when things seemed to be falling apart.

The theme of the Retreat couldn’t have been more fitting. It was about the Desert Fathers and Mothers and what they mean to the landscape of our religion and religious practices today. The Mothers and Fathers were able to retreat from the world and find their own spiritual centers during the times of their own personal “floods”.

My experience at the Men’s Retreat did not disappoint.

I knew that God intended for me to be there. I felt His presence and saw firsthand the movement of the Holy Spirit among this group of men. If you are looking for a way to recharge and find your spiritual center I would definitely recommend this retreat.

You’re invited to attend the Men’s Retreat on August 11-13, 2017 at the Rosaryville Spirit Life Center. For details visit http://firstmethodist.org/ministries/adults/retreats. Not a man? You can check out all of our fall retreat offerings and small groups at the website listed above. www.firstmethodist.org | Fall 2017 | 930north

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Jump START Sunday

SUNDAY, AUGUST 13 MAKE A COMMITMENT OR A CONNECTION THIS FALL ADULT SMALL GROUPS, STUDIES, RETREATS & WORKSHOPS Each year we celebrate the start of our new fall offerings in August! It’s what we call “Jump Start Sunday,” and it is a call to action.

Are you a mom, a knitter, a great cook (or aspire to be one), a man’s man, or a young professional? We have a small group for you! At First, we have opportunities for all ages and stages. Wherever you may be on your faith journey, we have a small group that is right for you. Want to learn more about the Bible or read it for the first time? Deepen your prayer life, or focus on how the Word translates into your everyday experiences? There’s a group study for that!

MAKE A COMMITMENT, MAKE A CONNECTION AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR LIFE! GO TO FIRSTMETHODIST.ORG/MINISTRIES/ADULTS AND START THINKING ABOUT HOW YOU’D LIKE TO GROW THIS YEAR: •

Make a Commitment- Groups lasting between 8 and 36 weeks. Yes, we did just drop the c-word! We know the word “commitment” may seem scary, but these groups will not only change your mind and heart – perhaps even your bank account – but they will also help you get some serious bible knowledge under your belt and make you a more spiritually mature disciple!

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Make a Connection- these small groups and studies are generally shorter in duration than our Commitment Groups; some meet weekly, some monthly

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Attend a retreat or workshop this year

JUMP START SUNDAY, AUGUST 13: YOUTH & CHILDREN •

All children should check-in (or register if you are new) at our Children’s Check-in table in the gym on Sunday mornings

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Children and youth are promoted to their next Sunday School

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CHILDREN’S WORSHIP & SUNDAY SCHOOL (9:40-10:40 AM) 1st-3rd graders will meet and worship in the Ory Parish Hall (we’re making some exciting changes including game and social time before worship), followed by Sunday School. Pickup will be in the Parish Hall at 10:40 AM. 4th and 5th graders will meet, worship, and have Sunday School in The Oasis on the 3rd floor of the Chapel Building. Pick-up will be in The Oasis at 10:40 AM.

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F.U.S.E. ON SUNDAY NIGHTS (5:00-7:00 PM) Sunday nights are exploding with God’s love as children fellowship and play trivia over dinner, and then rotate to Godly Play, hands on music, and crazy fun recreation. Register online or at the children’s check table on Sunday mornings. $50/child, children K-5th.

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YOUTH SUNDAY SCHOOL & SUNDAY NIGHT YOUTH GROUP Come experience the new format for Youth Worship and Youth Sunday School on Sunday mornings at 9:40 AM on the second floor of the Youth Building. Sunday night Youth Group will begin on Sunday nights from 5:007:00 PM.

[LOVE SELF] WITHOUT CONDITIONS

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS

27 TEENAGERS SPENT A WEEK DISCOVERING HOW TO LOVE GOD, LOVE THEMSELVES & LOVE OTHERS

MORE THAN JUST A MISSION TRIP SENIOR HIGH • OLJATO, UTAH

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he FUMC Youth began their relationship with the Navajo community at Oljato United Methodist Church almost 18 years ago. This summer 27 high school youth and 10 adult chaperones returned to Oljato, Utah for their summer mission trip. We were excited to serve, and were able to accomplish a lot in just 5 days. Guided by their chaperones, the youth installed a heater and ductwork system in the sanctuary, built an outdoor shade cover (complete with a poured concrete patio underneath), replaced doors, and rewired the sanctuary sound system. Youth led in the kitchen making all their own meals, and best of all, led a Vacation Bible School where each day 40 children learned of God’s love for them. Our friends in Utah were gracious to guide us on excursions through Monument Valley, experiencing God’s vast and beautiful Creation. It was a blessing to serve in Jesus’ name, and we can’t wait to return. I hope you can feel some of the transforming power of God’s presence on this trip in the stories below.

–KALE WETEKAMM, DIRECTOR OF YOUTH MINISTRY

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n this year’s mission trip I got to help run a VBS at the local church in Oljato, Utah. It was a great experience to show the native kids God’s love and teach them more about Him. The relationships I formed on this trip will definitely stick with me, and I will never forget those kids. Although I got to teach them about God’s love they taught me that everyone needs love in their life and showed me the true meaning of loving others.

– DAVIS COPELAND

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TOP: The mission team in Monument Valley. LEFT: Kale Wetekamm playing with the local kids during Vacation Bible School. RIGHT: Davis Copeland spending some QT with on the merry–go –round with Elijah.

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[LOVE OTHERS] MORE THAN JUST A MISSION TRIP

hese trips are truly a magical and enlightening experience for those that allow it to be, especially when we visit such different yet beautiful places like Utah, a place where the cool mornings, fresh air, and vast expanse of gorgeous God–given landscape help to clear even the most cluttered and confused mind. The beauty of Utah allows the peace of God to come in and bring rest in the mind and in the heart. These moments of serenity are far and few between in the world we live in today where the constant urge to go, go, go is present all around us. This time of peace and tranquility grants a clear conscience from knowing YOU are God’s physical hands and feet in this world and are using your time and God–given talents to help make someone’s life better.

Now to get a little bit narcissistic and talk about me and my experiences during this year’s trip. This experience quite possibly saved my life. A few months ago I was diagnosed with depression. It has a long history in my family, and with all the stress of what has been going on in my life from physical to social to academic problems, the chance to clear my head and reconnect with the man above all others, and with close friends that had become distant, was truly a gift. The ability to work hard on something and see it completed was also a big boost. I no longer view suicide as an option and am now over all happier with myself, my relationships with the people around me, and my relationship with God. Mission trips do great things for the people being assisted, but also for the people that serve.

–2017 HIGH SCHOOL MISSIONARY

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he Sr. High Mission Trip is always a highlight of my summer. It’s a time where I can meet new people, go to awesome places, and also become closer with God. My task this summer was to replace doors on the church.

The best part about this job was becoming closer with people I never met or really talked to. These trips are also a time to see God in ways I have never seen Him before. Looking up into the sky during worship every night and seeing the stars reminded me of His amazing power. I could also see this waking up to the sun rising over the mesas ever morning. I would highly recommend going on a youth mission trip to anyone. You will learn many things but have lots of fun too!

– JACOB BARNES Questions about Youth@First? Kale Wetekamm, Director of Youth Ministry would love to talk to you about what’s happening in the youth group this year.

Give him a call at 225-383-4777, ext. 224 or email kwet@firstmethodist.org. You can also visit https://www.firstmethodistyouth.org.

TOP: A view from the mesa.

LEFT: Youth building the outdoor shade porch. RIGHT: Jacob Barnes installing a new door frame.

www.firstmethodist.org | Fall 2017 | 930north

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[LOVE OTHERS] REACHING OUT ACROSS THE AISLE

R E AC H I N G OUT

ACROSS

THE AISLE A

s I drove from Sunday School at FUMC to eleven o’clock service at St. Mary’s Baptist Church, I nibbled on a packet of Belvita crackers–I had heard that Baptist services go for a long time, and I didn’t want my stomach rumbling in the middle of things.

Settling in to experience worship with our neighbors in the community, I took in my surroundings. I noticed the baptismal pool–a reminder of how different our practices are. Then I listened to music from a grand piano, a drum set, and keyboard–a reminder of the America Street contemporary service at FUMC–and how we all worship through music.

BY JENNIFER CARWILE

often heard talk of “We support you”. They were really hoping that they would SEE their Caucasian neighbors offering support this time. We left that meeting with the charge to go back to our churches and see how, as congregations, we can respond. Is there a way that our church can have a conversation about our role in this, how we might show support, and to encourage people to be present “at the table”?

Since our church is known in the community, I felt that it was important that we were leaders in sharing the love of Christ with our community I was most intrigued members who were by the ladies dressed in hurting. I invited some white at the front, who I other members of FUMC learned were deaconesses. who were interested to During the service this my house for dinner and day they were recognizing discussion on how we the passing of the head might respond to this. deaconess and the We decided that one way appointment of the new–a we could show solidarity The Deaconesses, painted by Jennifer Carwile wonderful reminder that and love to the African we all have traditions that American Community was we pass along, that are to visit an African American important to our faith experience. Words of welcome church for worship. Carolyn Carnahan, a member of from Pastor Knighton, who let us know that Rev. Brady FUMC has had longstanding ties with St. Mary’s and had been at the church early that week for a ministers’ asked that we visit with their congregation. St. Mary’s is meeting, reminded me again that we are all working in the Eden Park neighborhood near where the shooting parts of the body of Christ. happened last summer. We knew that community was hurting and we hoped to extend a healing gesture of love Back in April, rumors of the Justice Department as we worshiped with them. We planned to invite them swirled, I attended a community meeting in anticipation to visit our congregation in the following weeks so that of the Alton Sterling decision being announced. One we could reciprocate. comment from that meeting that stood out to me came from one of the African American pastors in About 12 of us went to St. Mary’s for worship on attendance. He said that he felt like, when issues really Sunday, May 7. There were various thoughts leading come to the table, the African American community up to the experience. We were obviously not part of

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[LOVE OTHERS] REACHING OUT ACROSS THE AISLE

the congregation–would we be welcomed? Would it be uncomfortable? Regardless of everyone’s apprehensions going in, everyone who went felt like it was a worthwhile experience. It was interesting to see how the rituals of their service varied from ours, and yet how the prayer and message was the same expression of love to our shared savior, Jesus.

Drumm. The image of The Deaconesses, which I painted after our visit to St. Mary’s, adorned place cards that gave a memento of our time together. It was nice to see, by the enthusiastic discourse in the room, that tables of mixed FUMC/St. Mary’s members seemed to have a really easy time talking. After welcomes by Rev. Becky and Rev. Brady, we broke bread together while guiding the conversation to the end topic–What Next? Members of both churches agreed that this type of exchange was a really effective way to reach across the community to build bridges.

We decided that, along with inviting St. Mary’s members to join us for worship, we would invite them to share a meal with us so that we could talk and get to know each other a little better. We were so pleased that a group of 20 people accepted our invitation! They were greeted by welcome teams in the gym before the service and sat with their welcome ambassadors during the service.

At lunch we were welcomed by tables that were beautifully decorated by Mitzi Hackenburg and Daphne

ABOVE: Members of St. Mary’s and FUMC get to know each other better while sharing a meal together at FUMC.

Here are ideas that we had to go forward with building bridges between our churches, as well as other churches across our community: • Do a church exchange once a quarter, between our churches, or different churches each time.

• Attend Sunday School as well as church to get to know people better.

• Forming prayer groups that meet early morning/ lunch/ etc with members of different congregations • Youth Activities (we realized that families with children might like to be involved, and that gearing activities towards children would make that easier) • Having our churches’ youth groups do activities together, like a field day or (your idea here!)

• Having our older youth groups do things together, especially activities for the younger kids • Doing a potluck where we have some activities for the kids so the adults can talk Want to build some bridges with us? We welcome anyone to join us for future cross–community exchanges. If you are a prayer warrior, involved with youth, would like to be a Church Ambassador on a future exchange, or have any other ideas about activities that we can do, please contact Jennifer Carwile at JKPetru@aol.com or 704–526–9087. I would love to speak with you!

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[LOVE SELF] WITHOUT CONDITIONS

A DEEP DIVE INTO ROMANS The Congregational Discipleship Retreat is a new addition to the retreat ministry at FUMC. The intent of the retreat is to help us understand how the Scriptures inform and form us for living in the Kingdom of God as followers of Jesus Christ. The first annual Discipleship Retreat was held in February of 2017, at the Wesley Center in Woodworth, LA. Dr. Ben Witherington III, taught participants on Paul’s Letter to the Romans. Cherri Johnson and Margaret Johnson, both Spiritual Directors at FUMC, led sessions on how Scripture forms our intimacy with God, and small group discussions on the transformative power of Paul’s Letter to the Romans.

You’re invited to the next Congregational Retreat in February of 2018. This retreat will offer teaching by Dr. Sandra Richter, professor of the Old Testament at Wheaton College, and author of the study “Epic of Eden,” which traces the story of God’s redeeming grace from the Garden of Eden to the garden of the New Jerusalem. Below you will here from some of the retreat participants and find more information about the small group study, “Epic of Eden” and the retreat.

BY ART & NORMA ROBERTS

T

he Discipleship Retreat was our first church retreat. Although we had participated in many Bible studies including Disciple I and II, we had not benefitted from a retreat experience. This retreat appealed to us because we would be with friends from our Trinity Sunday School class, and it would be supported by several of our church staff members and leaders. We were also very excited that the author of our study of the book of Romans, Dr. Ben Witherington, widely regarded as one of the foremost Biblical experts in the world, would be our retreat leader!

Dr. Witherington’s discussions brought clarity and better understanding of the relationship of the Old and New Testaments. We were truly inspired and comforted by the realization of God’s presence in our own everyday lives and in the world.

Being at the beautiful Wesley Center provided time away from all of our everyday distractions and an opportunity to reflect on God’s will for our lives. The Wesley Center provides very comfortable rooms and

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excellent meals. The grounds are inviting for meditation and reflection.

We can’t wait to attend the retreat in February of 2018 with Dr. Sandra Richter, author of “Epic of Eden” and “Isaiah” which we have studied, as our retreat leader!

Don’t miss the opportunity listed below to join a small group study of Epic of Eden coming this Fall.

EPIC OF EDEN A CHRISTIAN ENTRY INTO THE OLD TESTAMENT

TUESDAYS

10:00-11:30 AM

BEGINS SEPTEMBER 19, 2017

Join us as we re-discover God’s creation in the Garden of Eden and the redemption of his people in this 12-week study. The New Testament cannot be understood apart from the Old Testament. Discover the passion of the Old Testament story, deepen your spiritual life and renew your enthusiasm for studying the Bible! Visit http://firstmethodist.org/ministries/ adults/adult-classes to register.

[LOVE GOD] A DEEP DIVE INTO ROMANS

BY GREG COTTER

M

y wife, Pennie, and I are blessed to have been active participants in the first Discipleship Retreat. The retreat was led by Dr. Ben Witherington III, among the world’s foremost New Testament scholars. The retreat was sponsored by the Trinity Sunday School Class and was open to anyone. My wife, Pennie and I have been members of Trinity Class for about two years. Our class studied Dr. Witherington’s book, The Letter to the Romans along with accompanying videos for 12 weeks prior to the retreat. According to Ben, the book of Romans is considered by most biblical scholars to be the apostle Paul’s greatest written work.

Many call it the “the Fifth Gospel.”

The retreat was a deep dive into the book of Romans.

I was asked to lead the men each evening in discussion and you can imagine my delight (and intimidation) when Ben joined us as a participant rather than leader.

Through Ben’s instruction and guidance, we experienced how scriptural knowledge and spiritual formation help mold us into the people of God. The experience was profound!

Please consider joining us at the next Discipleship Retreat which will be held February 1–4, 2018 and will feature Dr. Sandra Richter, one of the world’s foremost Old Testament scholars. We will study Deuteronomy under Sandra’s leadership. You are also welcome to join our Sunday School class which meets Sunday mornings at 9:45 AM. Trinity Sunday School Class will begin preparing for the retreat with study materials this Fall.

WANT TO JOIN US AT THE 2018 DISCIPLESHIP RETREAT?

The class is led by Nancy Dumas who recently received her master’s degree at Asbury Theological Seminary.

Nancy provides our class with extraordinary resources for learning the scriptures. Most of my classmates are generally more knowledgeable of the scriptures than I am and further along in their spiritual journey, making our class an exceptional learning environment, and helping me become closer to God. Pennie and I rarely miss a class!

Interested in joining Trinity Class, or have questions about the retreat, contact Nancy Dumas by email at: nldumas@cox.net or by phone at 225-246-2112.

WANT TO SEE ALL THE NEW FALL SMALL GROUP & RETREAT OPPORTUNITIES?

Discipleship Retreat: Deuteronomy February 1-4, 2018 Wesley Center, Woodworth, LA Led by Nancy Dumas Cost: $218

•

To register or for more information visit: firstmethodist.org/ministries/ adults/retreats

• •

• •

Visit firstmethodist.org/ http://firstmethodist.org/ministries/ adults for details Commitment Groups: lasting 8-34 weeks Connectional Groups: meet weekly, monthly and are generally much shorter in duration than the Commitment Groups Retreats: for men, for women, day retreats and Advent retreat Marriage worshop for couples & Financial Peace University for money management skills

OPPOSITE PAGE: Retreat participants engaged in discussion. ABOVE: Dr. Witherington teaching a lesson during the Congregational Discipleship Retreat.

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CONGREGATIONAL NEWS│SHARING OUR CELEBRATIONS & SORROWS

[LOVE SELF] WITHOUT CONDITIONS

Celebrating Our Newest Members...

Jean Lusk, Carolyn Tate photos not available.

Gibbons Addison

Edy Addison

Micah Schilling

Anna Schilling

Celebrating the Baptism of...

Claire Davis

Jared Johnson

Mary Bowlin

Shannon Hyde

Amelia Plaisance 5–14–17 daughter of Joey & Christi Plaisance Carvey Baker 5–14–17 son of Michael & Regan Baker Claire Smith 5–14–17 daughter of Jessica & Clayton Smith Gracie Thomas 5–21–17 daughter of John & Debra Thomas Julien Michael 5–21–17 son of Emily Upton & Elliot MacLeod-Michael Ava Fontenette 5–28–17 daughter of Kyle & Emily Fontenette Parker Audas 6–11–17 daughter of Katie & Jeff Audas Paul Johnson 6–25–17 son of Morgan & Robert Johnson Solomon Whittington 6–25–17 son of Sean & Courtney Whittington Cecilia Dubuc 7–9–17 daughter of Walter & Christine Dubuc Shepherd Addison 7–9–17 son of Gibbons & Edy Addison Avery Stewart 7–16–17 daughter of Darby & Jonathan Stewart Owen McKnight 7–16–17 son of Ellis & Devon McKnight George McDowell 7–23–17 son of Jade & Kyle McDowell

Celebrating the Birth of...

Eddie Elsey

Missy Elsey

Kacie Benjamin 5–10–17 daughter of T.J. & Johnnay Benjamin Sutton Lassere 5–12–17 son of Andrew & Mary Lassere Miller Green 6–1–17 son of Kristin & Will Green Elizabeth Pernici 6–20–17 daughter of Michael & Margaret Pernici Zoe Hubble 7–21–17 daughter of Phillip & Jessica Hubble

Sympathy to the Families of...

Donovan Elsey

Charlie Potts

Katie Potts

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Rosemary Heard 5/1/2017 Frankie Whitford 5/2/2017 David Cook 5/8/17 Steve Smith 5/11/17 Luis Crespo 5/11/17 Estelle Barnard 5/15/17 George Olson 5/24/17 Cecil Hubbard 5/31/17 Claudia Uffman 6/1/17 Mary Sill 6/6/17

Gregory Payne 6/19/17 L.B. Brashier 6/20/17 William Roberts 6/24/17 Lawrence Brashier 6/30/17 Clifton Wascom 7/7/17 David Brumfield 7/15/17 John Constantine 7/17/17 Stanley Motsinger 7/19/17 Gunnar Schelin 7/23/17

[LOVE SELF] WITHOUT CONDITIONS

FALL 2017 Calendar of Events

For more information about small groups, classes, retreats or special events visit www.firstmethodist.org or call 383–4777

WEEKLY CALENDAR SUNDAYS

8:30 AM WORSHIP–SANCTUARY 9:00 AM CAFÉ 930 9:40 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL NEWCOMER COFFEE/ DISCOVER FIRST ESSENTIALS I CHILDREN’S WORSHIP 9:45 AM WORSHIP–AMERICA ST. 11:00 AM WORSHIP–SANCTUARY 4:30 PM PRAYER MINISTRY 5:00 PM ADULT CLASSES

YOUTH@FIRST

FUSE CHILDREN’S PROG.

MONDAYS

10:30 AM PRAYER MINISTRY

TUESDAYS

9:00 AM KNITTING & MEN’S COFFEE 10:30 AM WOMEN’S AA GROUP 12:00 PM ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

WEDNESDAYS

4:30 PM CARE TEAM 6:30 PM ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS 7:00 PM CHANCEL CHOIR

THURSDAYS

9:00 AM THURSDAY LADIES GROUP

MONTHLY LECTIONARY TEXTS A series of Scripture readings for specific days of the year. The Revised Common Lectionary is a 3–year cycle of readings. Four passages are recommended, usually 2 from both the Old & New Testaments. Thus, over a 3–year period the Bible is covered in a systematic & balanced way.

ADULT EVENTS HOLD ME TIGHT MARRIAGE WORKSHOP AUGUST 25-26 • AT FUMC MEMBERSHIP MATTERS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1 • 5:00–7:00 PM FUMC PARISH HALL MEN’S RETREAT AUGUST 11-13 ROSARYVILLE SPIRIT LIFE CENTER JUMP START SUNDAY AUGUST 13 AT FUMC

SR ADULT PROGRAM & LUNCH WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11 BEN POLCER AND THE FRENCHMAN STREET STOMPERS 10:30 AM • FUMC CONF. CENTER SR ADULT MYSTERY TRIP WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25 LA. CONFERENCE LAITY RETREAT OCTOBER 20-21 ADVENT DAY RETREAT SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 CENTERING PRAYER TUESDAYS, DECEMBER 5, 12, & 19 11:45 AM-12:30 PM • FUMC SPIRITUAL FORMATION CENTER

SR ADULT PROGRAM & LUNCH WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 10:30 AM • FUMC CONF. CENTER SR ADULT TRIP: ATCHAFALAYA SWAMP & PREJEAN’S (LUNCH) WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 CALL 383-4777 TO RSVP

CHILDREN’S EVENTS

WOMEN’S WALK TO EMMAUS SEPTEMBER 14-17 BROADMOOR METHODIST CHURCH MEN’S WALK TO EMMAUS SEPTEMBER 28-OCTOBER 1 BROADMOOR METHODIST CHURCH

FALL FEST OCTOBER 29 4:00-6:00 PM • AT FUMC

YOUTH EVENTS YOUTH IGNITE DISTRICT EVENT AUGUST 19 • 8:00 AM-6:00 PM HOPE COMMUNITY CHURCH

AUGUST 6 Genesis 32:22-31 Psalm 17:1-7, 15 Romans 9:1-5 Matthew 14:13-21

AUGUST 20 Genesis 45:1-15 Psalm 133 Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32 Matthew 15:(10-20), 21-28

SEPTEMBER 3 Exodus 3:1-15 Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45 Romans 12:9-21 Matthew 16:21-28

AUGUST 13 Genesis 37:1-4,12-28 Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45 Romans 10:5-15 Matthew 14:22-33

AUGUST 27 Exodus 1:8-2:10 Psalm 124 Romans 12:1-8 Matthew 16:13-20

SEPTEMBER 10 Exodus 12:1-14 Psalm 148 or 149 Romans 13:8-14 Matthew 18:15-20

www.firstmethodist.org | Fall 2017 | 930north

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Join us us for on Worship Join Sundays: Sundays

AM - Sanctuary 8:308:30 AM - Sanctuary Worship ServiceWorship Service 9:409:40 AM - Sunday for all ages AM -School Sunday School for all ages 9:45 AM - America Street Contemporary Service Children’s Worship 119:45 AM - Sanctuary Worship Service AM - America Street Contemporary

Service Nursery11 CareAM is available from - Sanctuary Worship Service 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Sunday mornings PM - PM, Adult Small Groups & Studies and 5:00 from 5:00-7:30 Sunday evenings

Youth@first (Youth Group)

F.U.S.E. Children’s Programming Nursery Care is available from 8:00 AM to For more information, visit www.firstmethodist.org 12:00 PM, Sunday mornings and from 5:00-7:30 PM, Sunday Evenings facebook.com/FUMCBR

To discover more about us visit firstmethodist.org

facebook.com/FUMCBR