September 2019 Newsletter by LIVE OAK CHURCH

COVER PAGE

FEATURES REFELECT WHAT YOU REFLECT........................................4

OFFICE

LIFELINE...............................................................................5

FOOD PANTRY Monday 11:00 - 1:00 Wednesday 8:00 - 11:00

WORSHIP AND PRIORITY....................................................6

THRIFT SHOP Monday 11:00 - 2:00 Wednesday 9:00 - 11:00 Friday 11:00 - 2:00

David Orges encourages readers to evaluate themselves and who we surround ourselves with.

Cameron Mckenzie gives advice on how to prepare for when a burden becomes too heavy. Trent Barnett helps us to reavaluate our priorities and center our life around Christ.

A SERVANT’S HEART............................................................7 Chris Lacara tells us about the impact one volunteer has had on our church. YES I WILL............................................................................8

Carl Doescher expresses the importance of being willing to follow God.

9/11 PATRIOT DAY CEROMONY.........................................9 SENIOR ADULT MINISTRY.................................................10

Monday-Thursday 8:00 - 6:00 Friday 8:00 - 2:00

CELEBRATING OUR NEW MEMBERS! Phyllis Brown Laura Latting Barbara Martone Cheryl Matheny

Landra Reed updates us on the latest Senior Adult events!

GOD’S MONEY AND YOU................................................11 A BIG DIFFERENCE............................................................12 Trish Graves writes about the big impact of a small jesture.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS....................................................15

Paint with Passion is back! Join us Friday, September 6th from 6:00 - 8:00pm for fun and fellowship! No painting skills required. Canvases are pre-drawn. The cost is $25 and pre-registration is required. Children under the age of 12 must paint with an adult. You can register in the Connection Center or email trish@loumc.org.

LIVEOAKCHURCH | www.loumc.org | September 2019

FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK

ummer of 2019 is in the “history books” and the Fall season is now here. What a summer it was, with an amazing VBS, music camp, youth trips, “Back to School Bash” just to name a few highlights. The Fall season is always about back to school, football games and the anticipation of cooler weather and I for one am always grateful for the change of pace and temperature. As we reflect on the last several weeks in our community and in our country there are many concerns that cause us to pause and ask the age-old question, “God, what on earth is going on?” In the past few weeks, there have been mass shootings in California, Texas, and Ohio. Many are asking what can be done to curb or end this senseless violence and killings. In other areas of concern, July 2019 broke records for extreme heat around the world. Many meteorologists said it again “we have never seen anything like this before.” Our nation also experienced devastating storms, earthquakes, and flooding in the past several months. There is also mounting tension and truculence among a variety of opposing groups as the differences between these groups evolve into division, violence, and conflict. The interesting thing is the Bible predicted these events, cultural changes and weather patterns in both the Old and New Testaments and especially in the Book of Revelation. Why did God reveal these events as future signs? Because, we are called to be mindful of them, prepare for them and warn others about them. Thus, in the month of September, we will be preaching on the sermon series “Back to the Future” a survey of the Book of Revelation. I hope you will join us for an exciting new series in the month of September. Hope to see you on Sunday.

God bless, Dr. Mark Crosby September 2019 | www.loumc.org | LIVEOAKCHURCH

REFLECT WHAT YOU REFLECT

REFLECT WHAT YOU REFLECT and don’t forget what you heard, then God

will bless you for doing it.” You see, God has given us everything that we need to EVALUATE OURSELVES AND DEVELOP A CLEAR PICTURE OF WHO WE ARE IN LIGHT OF HIS WORD. If we know the value of looking into the mirror and addressing our physical appearance, how much more should we be aware of our internal state.

’m a big fan of self reflection. No, not looking in the mirror endlessly with admiration… Although, that does remind me of an old greek fable:

BY DAVID ORGES

In Greek mythology, there was a man named Narcissus. He was a Laconian hunter who loved everything beautiful and became known for his unapproachable attractiveness. Narcissus became incredibly vain though, in that he disdained those who loved him for his beauty. One day he caught sight of his own reflection in a pond that was as smooth as glass. As he gazed deeper into the pool, he fell more in love with his own beauty, to the point that he refused to acknowledge all other beauty, even to his own detriment. The myth of Narcissus is the origin of the term narcissism, a fixation with oneself and one’s physical appearance or public perception. I’m not talking about that type of self-reflection. I’m talking about taking time to reflect on my thoughts, emotions, hope, dreams, and spiritual health. James writes in his letter to the early Jewish converts to Christianity about looking into a mirror; “If you just listen and don’t obey, it is like looking at your face in the mirror but do nothing to improve your appearance. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you keep looking steadily into God’s perfect law-the law that sets you free-and if you do what it says

If you’re a parent, it’s highly likely that you don’t have a lot of built in time for self-reflection though. So here’s a simple activity to help: List the 5 people you spend the most time with how have they affected your behaviors, thoughts, and life? It’s a great question for anybody to ask, but if you’re a parent struggling to stay afloat, feel out-of-control, or completely worn out, those are things that are a reflection of the people you spend the most time with. Maybe you only spend time with your spouse and your kids. Maybe you’re always surrounded by coworkers that negatively influence your attitude. Maybe you’re the person that is always giving and you haven’t been surrounded by people that are pouring back into you. IT’S SO IMPORTANT TO SURROUND OURSELVES WITH PEOPLE THAT ARE GOING TO SPEAK LIFE INTO US, LIFT US UP WITH ENCOURAGEMENT, AND HELP US BECOME THE BEST VERSION OF OURSELVES. If that doesn’t describe the five people you spend the most time with, maybe it’s time to start adding those kinds of people into your life. You might need to start attending a Bible study, join a community group, or BE INTENTIONAL WITH THE PEOPLE YOU SEEK OUT IN YOUR FRIENDSHIPS AND AT WORK. Remember, your kids will become who you show them, not who you tell them to become.

LIVEOAKCHURCH | www.loumc.org | September 2019

LIFELINE

BY CAMERON MCKENZIE

ave you ever had a close call while in the water, maybe you swam too soon after the barbecue or didn’t expect that charley horse to hit while you were so far out. When that happens, I can assure you, the one thing you are hoping for in that moment is for someone to help you. It’s why they warn you not to go swimming on your own. You might need somebody to throw you a lifeline and pull you in. I think that logic follows us into other areas of our lives as well. When I go on long trips, I ask Casey to stay awake in the passenger seat to make sure I don’t fall asleep at the wheel ruining more than just the trip. And when my brother goes out to build his deer stand, he asks me to come along in case he falls off the ladder and needs help. We trust the logic that being alone is more dangerous than being together. There is in fact safety in numbers. SO, WHY THEN DO WE NOT TRUST THAT LOGIC WHEN IT COMES TO OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST, AND OUR STRUGGLES WITH SIN. We live our lives attending church and “fellowshipping” with others, but often times we refuse to let even our brothers and sisters in Christ into our lives. We believe that we can handle it on our own, or at least “it’s between me and God.” I get it, I understand the comfort of the masks we wear. The ability to live your own life without letting people get too close feels like freedom. It feels good to help our “neighbors” without needing help ourselves. But, at some point in our lives,

we are going to fall of that ladder, or get a cramp when we least expect it, and in that moment our problems will be more than we can handle. IT WILL BE A TIME WHERE WE ARE IN DESPERATE NEED FOR A “LIFELINE” FROM THE PEOPLE AROUND US, AND NO-ONE CLOSE ENOUGH TO HELP. Galatians 6:2 says “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” When Paul wrote Galatians, he knew that we would need help in our lives, he knew that as members of the body of Christ we would need to work together to carry each other through some rough times in our lives.

In that instruction though is a part we often over look. With the knowledge that we will need to carry other’s burdens, also comes the knowledge that fellow believers will some day carry our burdens. We are not perfect beings, far from it, and sometimes it will be us needing to be carried for a while. That kind of trust in our relationships with others, is the trust I pray our congregation can one day achieve. If we can get comfortable without our masks on, and begin to truly trust our fellow believers, then we can look more like a family and less like a group of people that go to the same church. So, I ask of you the same thing I asked of my students and myself only last month. When something doesn’t go as planned or when a burden becomes too heavy for you, tell another believer. It’s going to take somebody going first, somebody taking a step in boldness and taking off their mask to show the brokenness underneath. As this happen though, we will see a change in our congregation as we begin to become more of a family of believers than strangers in a building. Don’t be afraid, ask for a lifeline, you’ll be surprised at the difference it can make.

September 2019 | www.loumc.org | LIVEOAKCHURCH

WORSHIP AND PRIORITY

WORSHIP AND PRIORITY BY TRENT BARNETT

Trent and his wife with Louie Giglio

ince the new school year began, most families are trying to settle back into some sort of routine. Extra-curriculars like sports and dance are starting back up, the kids have extra homework, and each day seems to be filled with more activities. By the end of the week, we often look back and wonder how we made it all work. With all this, it’s easy for us to overlook spending time alone with our Savior in prayer, in worship, and in growing relationship. We often don’t do this intentionally, but when we look at our calendar for the next week, there’s often little time for anything else, so we end up overlooking this relationship because of other priorities. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus says, “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” When we focus our hearts, our thoughts, and our lives on Christ first, He provides for us, and His righteousness sustains us. You see, a busy-centered heart is not going to lead to greater peace or less anxiety. It’s only with a Christ-centered heart that everything else falls into place, not the other way around. Centering our hearts on Christ everyday begins first and foremost with worshipping Him. Louie Giglio has said, “WHEN YOUR WORSHIP IS RIGHT, YOUR LIFE WILL BE RIGHT.” When our

lives are focused on Christ first and foremost, seeking His heart and direction as our first priority, then our lives are oriented the best way - the right way. Worship of our Savior is meant to be so much more than just singing songs. Don’t get me wrong, singing is an important piece of the puzzle, and it’s something Scripture calls us to do daily. But it’s only one piece. Worship is ascribing worth to someone or something that holds significant value - in our case, God. Worship is a longing to experience the genuine presence of God. It’s a desire to know Him, to interact with Him, and to experience the things we sing about to be true of God and of His involvement in our lives. It’s a desire for relationship. The closer we walk in relationship with God, the deeper our worship of Him grows - just as our connection with a spouse grows the closer we are in relationship with each other. “Worship, as it is described so vividly in Scripture, was meant to be a dialogue, flowing from the outpouring of a relationship with God. Worship is more than one-way communication from us to God. It is a two-way communication between God and His people. We exalt God. He reveals His presence and changes our hearts. We pour out our hearts and remember His greatness… He meets our needs for intimacy and grace” (Joe Horness). When we see worship as a rich expression of a growing relationship with our Savior, we place the highest value on it. When our lives are oriented around worship first, and seeing our world through God’s eyes, we begin to re-prioritize the things in our schedule. Sure, we still bring the kids to dance or sports, but we recognize those activities aren’t the center of our lives, nor is the identity of us or our kids wrapped up solely in those activities. Our identity and the center of our focus is rooted in our relationship with Christ. Everything else falls into place from there. continued on bottom of next page

LIVEOAKCHURCH | www.loumc.org | September 2019

A SERVANTS HEART

A SERVANT’S HEART BY CHRIS LACARA

am blessed to serve some great volunteers that I work with each week and throughout the whole year. Each week, volunteers come in to take care of some weekly duties that need completion. Many of these volunteers have been volunteering at the church since they were children. I get to know these volunteers on a personal level and I am thankful that I have that opportunity. There are so many small details that go into making sure certain duties and projects get completed around the church. As I said in last month’s article, our maintenance crew is amazing, but there is a lot to do for three people to complete. VOLUNTEERS ARE A BLESSING IN THAT THEY SELFLESSLY USE THEIR TIME TO TAKE OWNERSHIP OF TASKS AND PERFORM THEM TO THE UTMOST OF THEIR ABILITIES. One of these volunteers that means a lot to me and has shown me a lot about not only volunteering with a selfless attitude, but spiritual growth is John Hancock. I got to know Mr. John through volunteering on the Trustees committee at our church. I eventually became the Trustees Chairman and I knew that Mr. John would be the perfect Vice Chairman. There were some big decisions that would come before the committee and even when some of us would want to argue, Mr. John always kept a levelheaded attitude throughout the meetings. He would always ask he questions that others hadn’t thought of at that moment. He had a voice on that committee that was always respected. Eventually, I was offered the Facilities Director position at our church and I was still able to work with Mr. John, but in a new way. He became one of my bosses, but I always received guidance from him in situations that I seemed to be at a loss. He has now become

one of my greatest volunteers and has made himself available when new projects come up around our church. I SAY ALL OF THIS TO SHED LIGHT ON SOMEONE THAT NEEDS PRAYER. Mr. John is going through some health issues and could use our prayer and support. I am now switching roles with Mr. John. Usually, I am the one that needs his guidance or help, but now he needs his church family. He needs us to lift him and his family up in prayer and he needs us to know that we are constantly thinking about the Hancock family. I ask that we do these things for Mr. John and his family. WHAT A BLESSING IT IS TO KNOW THAT WE HAVE A CHURCH FAMILY THAT WILL COME TOGETHER AND LIFT OTHERS UP IN THEIR TIMES OF NEED. I am thankful for Mr. John and thankful for the family of Live Oak Church.

WORSHIP AND PRIORITY CONTINUED

Then, and only then, are we able to truly pray something along the lines of the lyrics from the Chorus of Passion’s “Fade Away” (a newer song to 11:30 and the 10FLC services) - “IF YOU’RE NOT IN IT, I DON’T WANT IT, LET ALL ELSE FADE AWAY, TAKE THE WHOLE WORLD, BUT GIVE ME JESUS, LET ALL ELSE FADE AWAY.” With God first, we want His will for our lives to take center stage, and everything else that is a distraction to fade away. As we worship Him, we make the choice to place His priorities as our first priority.

September 2019 | www.loumc.org | LIVEOAKCHURCH

YES I WILL

BY CARL DOESCHER

ave you ever been going through just a normal day at school, work, or at home and a song pops in your head? Or maybe it is stuck in your head for a whole day? This seems to happen to me all the time! For instance, I will be in line at the nearest grocery store and I will have to catch myself because before I know it I’m singing the song out loud. Since, I drive almost everyday alone, I am able to listen to music and really focus on what each song is saying. Many songs I hear passing by in restaurants, stores, churches, and I don’t think twice about what they are saying because honestly I’m more focused on what I am doing at these places. Fortunately or unfortunately, depending on which way one looks at it, I am unable to hear what the artist is trying to portray through his or her song. Recently, in my driving time a certain song has been standing out. It is the song “YES I WILL.” Here is a lyric from it. I count on one thing The same God that never fails Will not fail me now In the waiting The same God who’s never late Is working all things out You’re working all things out Yes I will, lift You high in the lowest valley Yes I will, bless Your name Oh, yes I will, sing for joy when my heart is heavy All my days, oh yes I will We see in Scripture that God’s timing is perfect and He is working all things out for His people. For example in Genesis we see this with Abraham and his son Isaac. God tells him to take his son to a mountain and sacrifice him as

a burnt offering. “Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love Isaac and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.” -Genesis 22:2 Abrabham responds in obedience and begins preparing to do what the Lord had asked him to do. Then Abraham says something to his son after his son asks him where is the burnt offering that is difficult. “Abraham answered, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And the two went together. Genesis 22:8 As the situation unfolds, ABRAHAM IS BEING TOLD TO DO A TASK THAT REQUIRES A HUGE AMOUNT OF FAITH, but he is willing to say, “Yes I will.” In the end, as Isaac is on the altar, to be sacrificed, and God speaks to Abraham, telling him to not touch his son, but CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

LIVEOAKCHURCH | www.loumc.org | September 2019

9/11 PARISH PATRIOT DAY CEREMONY

9/11 LIVINGSTON PARISH ‘PATRIOT DAY’ CEREMONY BY CAROLYN HATCHER

ivingston Parish and area citizens are again invited to come together on Wednesday, September 11, 2019, Patriot Day, to remember and pray—remember the lives lost in the worst terrorist attack in U.S. history; remember those of our parish that have lost their lives in service for our parish and nation; and pray for our country. The theme for the year is “Love One Another”. Americans have always found power and unity through prayer. The observance will be held from noon till 1 p.m. in the L.P. Council Chambers, 20355 Government Blvd, Livingston.

DiMaria and Master of Ceremonies Mayor Gerard Landry. Youth participants will be the Southland Christian Academy, Denham Springs High School JROTC, Michael Rheams, Josie Purvis, and Emily and Ella Otken.

At the Cry Out America Remembrance & Prayer Service, local elected officials and pastors will lead the service and prayers, along with local youth. Participants on the program will be President Layton Ricks, Sheriff Jason Ard, Superintendent of Schools Joe Murphy, Judge Beth Wolfe, Representative Valarie Hodges, Arthur Perkins (Ret. Lt. Col. US Nat. Guard), Pastors Constance Saizon, Edith Carlin, Val Taylor, Mike

Submitted by: Carolyn R Hatcher Livingston Parish Coordinator Cry Out America 35130 Stone Castle Drive Denham Springs, LA 70706 crhatcher1@att.net 225-664-1850 225-936-9066

Parish organizers are Floy Law, Janice Bourgoyne, Edith Carlin and Parish Coordinator Carolyn Hatcher. Cry Out America, a national prayer movement, was founded in 2007, by the Awakening America Alliance and is affiliated with the National Day of Prayer. Info: crhatcher1@att.net.

September 2019 | www.loumc.org | LIVEOAKCHURCH

SENIOR ADULT MINISTRY

SENIOR ADULT MINISTRY BY LANDRA REED

e all have those times when everything around us just isn’t going right and that can be discouraging. As Christians we say “this too shall pass” for God will see us through it. And He does! But we still find joy through the trials. You may find it through a sunset, through your child’s smile, through the sparkle in your spouse’s eyes when you look at them, or through the simple remembrance of God’s love and grace. There are so many ways to embrace joy if you only allow yourself to do so.

“

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” James 1:2-3

In August we had a small group of us that truly enjoyed the Old Governor’s Mansion and lunch at Mason’s Grill. The mansion was filled with a lot of original furniture and all the floors are original. Very interesting tour if you ever get a chance to go. Mason’s Grill was delicious! I think almost everyone had leftovers due to the portions being large.

On September 12th we will be going to Middendorf’s for 11:00. We will leave by bus from the church at 9:45. See you all then! Many blessings to you!

LIVEOAKCHURCH | www.loumc.org | September 2019

GOD’S MONEY AND YOU

eptember is here. School is now in session, and football season is upon us. Hopefully in the near future, cooler weather will return to our area as well. I generally struggle to write this article, and this time is no different. But as I sit and write this, I am looking at a picture of a friend’s newborn daughter. And all of a sudden, the task of writing this article gets a bit easier. Matthew 6:20-21 says, “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” If you asked me why I tithe to Live Oak Church, I would tell you many reasons – Scripture says to, God asks me to test Him in this area, I trust that God will provide, and that I love God and Jesus more than I love money. But now, I am reminded of how much I want Live Oak Church to be a lighthouse in our area for future generations. For generations in our community, the Lord has placed faithful believers to love and serve the congregation of Live Oak. They knew how important it was to make sure God’s Word was brought forward for future generations. And now that it is our time, we have that same opportunity to continue that effort. My hope is that Live Oak Church will be available not only for my friend’s daughter but also for countless others that we may never meet until we see them one day in Heaven. Be encouraged, trust God in all areas of your life, and ask Him for guidance in your support of Live Oak.

BY JIM OTKEN

YES I WILL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 BY CARL DOESCHER

instead sacrifice the ram He had provided that was stuck in a thicket. This ram was not presented to Abraham and his son until Abraham was willing to do what God had him to do. I see this image in my head that as Abraham and Isaac are walking up the mountain, so is the ram on the other side to meet them just at the right time. Many of us who are involved in the church have had, are presently going through a period where God is asking, “ARE YOU WILLING?” “Are you willing to answer to what I have called you to?” Are you willing to take the next step?” Are you willing to trust me with everything?” Are you willing to let me provide for you?” In verse fourteen of Genesis 22, Abraham calls the place where this life-changing experience took place, “The Lord Will Provide.” Those four words should be on our hearts at all times if we are believers because we see our God do this all through the Bible, but we also see it in our own lives. We just need to stand and say, “Yes I will.”

September 2019 | www.loumc.org | LIVEOAKCHURCH

A BIG DIFFERENCE

A SMALL PIECE OF WOOD CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE

child’s life. Every day our kids are having to make tough decisions, establish relationships, stand up to peer pressure, keep up with homework, work hard enough to make the team, and make the grade. Our kids need people in their lives that care, people that listen, help them make good decisions, and teach them life lessons. THEY NEED PEOPLE TO HELP THEM NAVIGATE THIS THING WE CALL LIFE.

BY TRISH GRAVES

ast year, I received from Mr. Ron and Mrs. Linda Juneau a paper towel tube wrapped in Christmas paper, twisted at each end and held in place with ribbon. I squealed with excitement and got all teary-eyed because I knew exactly what it was. Everyone who knows Mr. Ron knows what I’m talking about. Everyone wanted that tube wrapped in Christmas paper. All of the kids in Mr. Ron and Mrs. Linda’s Awana group got one. And now it was my turn. I got my very own Jesus loves Trish carved out of wood, by Mr. Ron. To Mr. Ron, this was just a simple gesture of kindness, but to me, to me this was special. Because he took the time to carve a piece of wood. For me. EVERYONE NEEDS TO KNOW THAT THEY MATTER TO SOMEONE. For our kids, it can be a Sunday School teacher, a small group leader, a teacher, a coach or anyone that chooses to pour into a

As adults, we often don’t think we have anything to offer. What if I’m not a teacher, or a coach, or a leader? Here at church I get to see relationships form between children and adults all the time. And you would be surprised how much these relationships mean to our kids. Kids crave the attention of adults, and especially when it’s for no reason other than the adult wanting to spend time with the kid. There’s no expectation of good grades, or playing the sport well. It’s just to get to know them. On Wednesday nights, I get to see adult leaders spending time with the kids playing games. Basketball, dodgeball, 9-square. And you know what? These kids would rather play with the adults than play with other kids. They love the fact that these leaders take time to play with them. Spend time with them, just because. When I was in 2nd grade, the lady next door would invite me over just to visit. She taught me how to make christmas decorations, how to make cookies, how to iron clothes and to wash dishes. She would read to me and tell me stories about other countries she had visited. She knew that I was the oldest of four kids and my Mom was super busy. I don’t know why, but she invested in me, and I will never forget her. I was important to her, and she made a difference in my life. Do you know a child you can invest in? It doesn’t take a lot of time, effort, or money. A FEW MINUTES, A SIMPLE GESTURE, A LETTER OF ENCOURAGEMENT, A PAT ON THE BACK, OR A CARVED PIECE OF WOOD CAN MAKE MORE OF A DIFFERENCE THAN YOU KNOW.

LIVEOAKCHURCH | www.loumc.org | September 2019

Hi friends, Many girls die every day as a result of physical abuse, drug overdose, and even suicide. The fight is REAL! A Door of Hope is a 501(c)3 faith based, non-profit organization whose mission is to break the cycle of life-controlling issues and self-destructive behaviors by providing FREE services to girls/women in crisis. We are a collaboration of churches, businesses, and individuals that have come together with their time, talents, and resources to restore broken lives. We serve Livingston, Baton Rouge, Ascension, and surrounding areas. Saturday, October 19th, 2019 at Kidz Korner (979 Government St., D.S., La 70726) A Door of Hope will be hosting our 5K Run4Colorâ&#x20AC;ŚRun4Hope. We would like to personally invite you to participate in this run as a sponsor, booth vendor, church or community organization. There are many benefits to partnering with us such as advertisement for your business or organization, networking opportunities, and the chance to help women and children overcome unfortunate situations. We believe the greatest investment we can make in the life of another person is the evidence of a changed life. Here at A Door of Hope, we aim to change lives! This year, A Door of Hope will be having our 2nd COLOR RUN! We are also doing a fun

run for children. Participants will run through the color tunnel and proceed to the finish line where the winners will be awarded a prize! This year we would like to see some friendly competition as we all walk/run for a cause. We are looking for church youth groups, school tracks teams, business vs. business, and even family vs. family teams. Run4Color this year supports the different facets A Door of Hope represents: Domestic Violence (purple) Addiction (red) Mental Health (green) Suicidal (teal & purple) Child Abuse (royal blue) Sexual Abuse (teal) Self-Harm (orange) Abortion (white) Infant Loss (pink & blue) Wear your COLORS and let your imagination RUN! There will be free food, great music, and activities for the whole family. Parents, grandparents, and local business are ALL welcome to this event! For more information, contact Erika (225) 686-7747 or email: erika@adoorofhopela.com Erika Anaya Fundraising, Donations, & Special Event Coordinator A Door of Hope

September 2019 | www.loumc.org | LIVEOAKCHURCH

MINISTRIES

MEN’S MINISTRY BY SAM LOBELLO

There will be a Men’s Steak Dinner Fellowship Tuesday, October 8th at 6:30 PM in Club 252. Our video message will be from June’s GridIron Men’s Conference. Come join us for this time of fellowship and spiritual growth. Cost: $15. Sign up at Information Desk.

THE THRIFT STORE

BY SAM LOBELLO

Thanks! We appreciate our Thrift Store Volunteers.

Our Thrift Store is open three days a week... Monday and Friday, 11:00 AM- 2:00 PM; and Wednesday 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM. We are grateful for our hard working Thrift Store Volunteer Team. Without them this ministry would not be possible. If you would like to join our Volunteer Team call our Thrift Store Director, Peggy Langois at 665-1314 or call the Church Office at 664-4801. We would love to have you on our Thrift Store team!

LIVEOAKCHURCH | www.loumc.org | September 2019

MINISTRIES

WOMEN’S MINISTRY BY SAM LOBELLO

Launching Monday, September 16, 6:30 PM in the Chapel. Sign up at Information Desk. “There are few people brave enough to share their truth authentically and candidly. My longtime friend Lysa TerKeurst is one of those people. In “It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way,” she gives us permission to acknowledge our own pain and disappointment by courageously exposing her own. Then she points us squarely to the sovereignty and faithfulness of God. This is a powerful book not only because each chapter oozes compassion and grace, but because I’ve personally witnessed the tears, the pain, and the prayers that produced it. And therein lies the strength. It will be impossible to read this and not be tremendously encouraged.” -Priscilla Shirer, Bible teacher and author

GLOVES MINISTRY

BY SAM LOBELLO

Most of Our Gloves Ministry Team members are retired men and women with a skill set to build and repair things with a heart to help others. They, along with others have served our Watson community tirelessly for years. Our Gloves Ministry Director is Greg Hooper. If you are interested in serving on our Gloves Ministry Team please call the Church Office at 664-4801. They can sure use your helping hands! Ministering to the Live Oak community

September 2019 | www.loumc.org | LIVEOAKCHURCH

BIRTHDAYS

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THOSE BORN IN SEPTEMBER September 1st Thanette son September 11th James Hall Liz Bankston James Alexander Hunsberger Amanda Bueche Aubrey Hodges Reagan Carroll Jackson Rogers Tubby Fugler Linda Morrison Ryan Fuselier Ashley Landry John Crutchfield Reese Tholborn Ron Hodges Nicholas Penn September 27th Mimi Hagan Jim Wassan Pat Duke Betty Kirby Deuce Ransome Marty Henry September 16th Derek Glover Kaizley Anslem Barbara Lott September 7th Lillian Hubert Kathy Aucoin Pat McCumsey Derek Arnold Michael Rogers David Anthony Toni Bozeman Polly Hubert Don Griffith Jeremy Tripp Bryce Stallcup Vince Arbour Tanya Johnson Rachel Hodges Linda Vickers Sherri Gafford Mason Stephens Kendall Day Avy Jones Dayle Leiva September 22nd Penny Greer Lisa Swindle Kaylene Derbes Josh Prejean Chris Griffin Destany Ross Amanda Baker Rebecca Tadlock Robert Everett Olivia Hooge Jenna Smith Richard ThompsonJeanie Bergeron September 2nd Ethan Henderson Madelyn Taylor Dale Wattigney Sadie Ann Chutz Jim King Amee Bordelon Eli Johnson Addi Vallot September 17th Dylan Guidroz September 28th Linda Gannon Logan Johnson Septmeber 12th Amy Cowart Susan Pittman Marian Badon Larry Hayes Elysah Shaw Gwendolyn Allen Stephanie Curtin J. W. Starks Jeanine Chadwick Kelly Hood September 8th Eddie Arceneaux Stacie Knippers September 23rd Suzanne Cotton Trey Horne Nicholas Cowart Bennie Chambers Sidney Mayeaux Haskell Dyer Candi Holmquest Tracye Martin Sidney Fernon Brad Crawford Arthur Minor Brenda Gates Skip Johnson, II Cooper Miller Ashley Forrest Jeff Leiva Tara Dixon Barbara Parker Cherry Hohensee Elaina Perkins Mark Fryoux Jeffrey Duplantis Lynde Sandifer Blake Muller Bogie Knapp Brittney Rogers Kimberly Hastings Madison Martin September 18th Tamara Pichon Chase Muller September 3rd Carson Stafford Jim McGowan Tonya Darnell September 24th Dawn Rush Bailey Coleman Reed Taylor Michelle Melancon Logan McGinnis Lecilyn Hall Timothy ThompJoAnn Gremillion Scarlett Wassan Paige Mitchell son Learah Moss Rhett Hebert Pam Raborn Neil Wilkinson Roger White Holly Morris Gerald Phares Peyton Horne Robert Swindle September 9th Mitzi Newman September 29th Nicole Ross Tyler Ory Meagan Whitten Martha Addison September 13th Billy Taylor Aiden Saunders Madeline Allen September 4th Carley Biscotto Jerry Antle September 19th Marvelle Stafford Bryce Crawford Jason Ard Jacob Buckhalter Michael Giles Jami Gwyn Chase Peterson Charles Truax Gabie Church Denise Cutrer Ginger Heuvel Ainsley Stansbury Donald Vickers Benjamin Hall Becca Dantin Amanda Leblanc Collin Smith Patti Kent William Vickry Caleb Walls Jeffrey Rush Beth Leblanc September 14th Jacob White September 25th Peggy Langlois Abby Savant Savannah Wright Tyree Howard September 20th Brooklyn Bridgers Charles Wilson September 5th September 10th Jaden Leger Jan Bates Ryan Chavers September 30th Mike Adams Jerry Blouin David Drake Charlotte MichBryan Blount Pamela Curtis Christopher Babin Fisher Easley Brenden Fernon gelsen Diane Boso Reubin Gourley Warren Curtis Nicole Glover Kyle Rankin Hayes Cowart Lauren McGowan DeSha Fryoux Lane Doiron Melanie Guillory Annie Taylor Charles Dougay Jenelle Roblin Roger Guillory Dee Everett Kim Lalumia Emily Tucker Chad Lane Mark Schiltz Mary-claire JohnDerenda Geter Andrew Lancon son Becky Use Emily Otken Mark Schiltz Zack Shepherd Marsha Lewis September 15th Louis Prince Tammy Penn Daniel Shepherd September 6th Tucker Migues Amelia Baker Brian Scivicque September 26th Ralph Walker Kim Couvillion Rainey Price Tori Young Betty Bergeron Shelly Strobel Lori Cothern Landon Crutch- Daphan Salpietra Knox Boyette September 21st Gracie McCleary field Chad Varnado Tracy Fletcher Bob Baker Brooklyn Robert-

LIVEOAKCHURCH | www.loumc.org | September 2019

EVENTS

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September 2019 | Calendar of Events A TIME AND A PLACE FOR EVERYONE For more information about groups and events visit www.loumc.org or call (225) 664-4801

WEEKLY CALENDAR

SUNDAY 8:00 AM TRADITIONAL - SANCTUARY 9:00 AM NEW MEMBERS CLASS - RM#16 10:00 AM TRADITIONAL - SANCTUARY 10:00 AM CASUAL CONTEMPORARY - FLC 11:30 AM CONTEMPORARY - SANCTUARY MONDAY 6:30 PM WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY 6:30 PM MEN’S BIBLE STUDY - ROBERT POOLE’S HOUSE TUESDAY 6:30 PM WOMEN’S MINISTRY 6:30 PM MEN’S DEEPER LIFE WEDNESDAY 8:00 AM QUILTER’S MINISTRY - FLC 6:00 - 7:30 PM CIA - 3yrs to 4th GRADE 6:00 - 8:00 PM Axis56 - MIDDLE SCHOOL 6:00 - 8:00 PM 78Jump - JUNIOR HIGH 6:00 - 8:00 PM FocalPoint912 - HIGH SCHOOL THURSDAY 6:30 PM REFUGE - RM #2 7:00 PM MID WEEK WORSHIP - CHAPEL

ADULT EVENTS

NEW MEMBER’S CLASS 4 WEEK CLASS THAT RESTARTS THE FIRST SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT 9 AM IN ROOM #18 FOR MORE INFO EMAIL SAM@LOUMC.ORG GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP THIS GROUP WILL BE MEETING THE 2ND AND 4TH TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT 7PM IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM. FOR MORE INFO EMAIL STEPHEN@LOUMC.ORG MEN’S PRAYER BREAKFAST SECOND SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH. THIS MONTH OUR MEN’S PRAYER BREAKFAST WILL FALL ON SATURDAY THE 10TH AT 7:30 AM

FAMILY EVENTS

PAINT WITH PASSION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6TH FROM 6 - 8 PM. NO PAINTING SKILLS REQUIRES. CANVASES ARE PREDRAWN. THE COST IS $25 AND PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 12 MUST PAINT WITH AN ADULT. YOU CAN REGISTER IN THE CONNECTION CENTER OR EMAIL TRISH@LOUMC.ORG.

FALL FESTIVAL FRIDAY OCTOBER 26TH FROM 10 AM - 3 PM 5:30 IRON MAN STUDY - CONFERENCE RM CHURCH PARKING LOT

September 2019 | www.loumc.org | LIVEOAKCHURCH

LOUMC STAFF

Coming together from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences, our skilled team of pastors and ministry professionals are the backbone of Live Oak. Their ideas and leadership help shape the direction and mission of our organization as we continues to grow.

Rev. Tommy Bergeron Stephen Hebert Director of Pastoral Care

Minister of Pastoral Care

Faith Storck

Jim Otken

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ministry Assistant

Treasurer

Dr. Mark Crosby Senior Pastor

Cameron McKenzie

Carl Doescher

Linda Holdman

Kim Pamplin

Junior High Minister

Administrative Assistant

LIVEOAKCHURCH | www.loumc.org | September 2019

Middle School Minister

Office Professional

LOUMC STAFF

Rev. David Orges Executive Pastor

Rev. Trent Barnett Director of Worship Ministries

Danny Wilson

Audio Engineer

Monica Martin Church Administrator

Rev. David Easley Assistant Music Director

Chris Lacara Maintenance Director

Rev. Dickie Davis

Rev. Sam Lobello

Associate Pastor

Director of Adult Ministies

Seth Doiga

Trish Graves

Music Director

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ministry Director

Dale Strickland

Amos Chassaing

Maintenance Assistant

Housekeeping

September 2019 | www.loumc.org | LIVEOAKCHURCH

Live Oak United Methodist 34890 La Hwy 16 Denham Springs, LA 70706

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September 2019 Edition