TIME-2007-07 by St. Luke's UMC

ST. LUKE’S CLERGY STAFF:

Kent Millard, Linda McCoy, Carolyn Scanlan, Brian Durand, Marsha Hutchinson, Marion Miller, Stan Abell, Adolf Hansen ST. LUKE’S STAFF:

Anne Adams, Associate Director of Children’s Ministries; Kathy Alexander, Administrative Team Assistant; Lorie Lee Andrews, Director of Children’s Ministries; Betty Brandt, Director of Spiritual Life Center; Brad Cherry, Facilities; Terri Coe, Director of Adult Ministries; Lori Crantford, Director of Communications, Marketing & Development; Brian Durand, Director of Youth & College Ministries; Jan Emmons, Finance; Andy Engle, Youth Intern; Sylvia Forbes, Membership & Care; Brenda Freije, Student Pastor; Bryce Fuhrmann, Associate Director of Youth Ministries; Bertie Gilster, Front Office; Derek Hakes, Director of Handbells; Adolf Hansen, Theologian in Residence; Janelle Hatfield, Childcare Coordinator; Carol Helmus, Special Event Coordinator; Sharon Holyoak, Oasis Bookstore Manager; Molly Huntemann, Youth Intern; Marsha Hutchinson, Grief Ministries; Julia Johnson, Executive Director of Ministries; Faina Kleyner, Finance; Beth Lammers, Building Scheduler; Tujuianna Lockhart, Facilities; Bobbi Main-Jackson, Director of Weekday Ministries; Charles Manning, Assistant Director of Music; Kathleen Marvin, Associate Director of Youth Ministries; Linda McGlothlin, Adult Ministries; Bonnie McMenamin, Music Ministries/Later Assistant; Ryan McMenamin, Technical Director; Janet Miller, Childrens Ministries; DeAnna Moran, Singles Special Events Coordinator & Adult Ministries Registrar; Tim Moore, Taizé Prayer Service Leader; Rickie Murphy, Facilities; Debra Nethercott, Director of Children’s Choirs; Sarah Nevin, Publications Design; Jan Nichols, Coordinator of World Missions Projects; Julie O’Connor, Development & Celebration Team; Jessica Pollock, Young Singles Coordinator; Rich Potterf, Building & Grounds Ministry; Mary Katherine Schnitz, Director of Care Ministries; Cara Scott, Receptionist; Wonnie Sibotshiwe, Facilities; Mark Squire, Director of Music Ministries; Alison Strawmyer, Weekday Ministries; William Taylor, Facilities; Jayne Moynahan Thorne, Director of Outreach Ministries;

Mary Lynne Voigt, Music Outreach Coordinator; Cheryl West, Director of New Song Choir; Adra Wheeler, Director of Hospitality & Volunteers; Wanda Wilburn, Facilities; Rich Wisman, Facilities; Tonda Zeek, Computer & Administration.

celebrations & concerns

THE GARDEN CLERGY STAFF:

Linda McCoy, Stan Abell, Marion Miller THE GARDEN STAFF: Suzanne Stark, Creative Director & Director, Good Earth Band; Richard Ramsey, Creative Director; Steve Whipkey, Director, Oak Hill Band; Judy Tolley, Administrative Team Leader

CONDOLENCES TO:

CONGRATULATIONS TO:

Roger, Debbie and Jeff McClain on the death of wife and mother Elizabeth McClain

Troy & Jennifer Skinner on the birth of their daughter Charlotte Ann

Barbara Rennaker on the death of her husband Russ Rennaker and the death of her sister Joan Henson

Mark & Meagan Cole and Tim & Diane Pashal on the birth of son and grandson Owen Lee

  is a publication of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church 100 W. 86th Street Indianapolis, IN 46260 Telephone: 317-846-3404 Fax: 317-844-1034 Web: http://www.stlukesumc.com Communion EDITORIAL/ PRODUCTION STAFF:

Editorial: Lori Crantford Design: Sarah Nevin Contributing writers: Maria Blake, Betty Brandt, Mike Coppes, Derek Hakes, Peter Howe, Jennifer Huber, Julia Johnson, Marsha Hutchinson, Charles Manning, Mary Katherine Schnitz, Norm & Sue Stuart, Jayne Thorne, Mary Lynne Voigt, Brent Wright, Bob Zehr. Circulation manager: Sylvia Forbes. NEXT COMMUNION DEADLINE:

August 1, 2007 for the Sept./Oct. issue.

IN THIS ISSUE: 4 6 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 22 24 27 31 32

Israel Social Principles Inclusiveness AIDS & Malaria Fletcher Place Good Sam Back to School World Missions Gala Stephen Ministry Planning for Disaster Spiritual Life Center UMW Retreat Youth Endowment Music Ministries Staff Changes New Members / Facilities T.I.M.E. Everyday

staff

Ellen Bell on the death of her father Wayne Heston Friends and family of Marilyn Morrison Jeff Frazer on the death of his father Lloyd Frazer

Randy & Tricia Brownell and Jay & Rosy Brownell on the birth of son and grandson Tyler Preston Jon & Kristi Tronc on the birth of their daughter Allison Joy

Robert Cook and family on the death of wife and mother Joanne Cook

Nate & Paula Montgomery on the birth of their son Tobin Matthew

Jeffrey & Tracy Mink-Owens on the death of mother Clara D. Owens

Denis & Lisa Boland on the birth of their daughter Mira Grace

Dick Goss on the death of his wife Joanne Goss

Steven and Nicole Simonsen on the birth of their daughter Isabella Renee

Shirley Hamer on the death of her father Douglas Baugh Rosemary Adams on the death of her mother Bertie Deschler Paul Messerall on the death of his brother Hudson Messerall Martha Lawson and family on the death of her husband Bishop David Lawson Janice Frank on the death of her mother Lida Presler

from the desk Dear Friends: Jesus is sometimes called the “outdoor Son of God” because he did most of his preaching and teaching not inside a building but in God's outdoor cathedral. Many of his analogies about God are drawn from observations he made while he was outdoors. For example:

Maggie Hallam & Ben Anderson on their wedding of April  Lois Lewis & Richard Surber on their wedding of May  Heather Kofeldt & Andrew Stoel on their wedding of May  Darcy Engh & Michael Jacobs on their wedding of May  Kelly Potter & Andy Smith on their wedding of June 

HE LOOKED AT THE BEAUTIFUL WILDFLOWERS growing along

the side of a hill, pointed to them and said essentially: “look at the flowers in the field; they don't worry about anything and yet God takes care of them; trust God to care for you the way he cares for flowers in the field.” HE POINTED TO THE BIRDS flying in the air and said that not one of them falls to the ground without God knowing about it; then he reminded us that we are as valuable to God as the birds. HE POINTED TO A FARMER sowing seeds in his field and compared it to his work of

Stephanie Powell & James Parsons on their wedding of June 

sowing the seeds of faith in the hearts of people and trusting that they would grow and produce the fruits of compassion, generosity, and love for all people.

Christina Millikan & Justin Blanding on their wedding of June 

During this summer season I hope you will have some time in the outdoors whether it is gardening, mowing your lawn, fishing, boating or enjoying a sunset. While you are enjoying God's out of doors I hope that you will learn from the birds, the flowers, the trees and the sunset something about God's desires for your life.

Emily McIntyre & William Turner on their wedding of June  Courtney Campbell & Kevin Scholz on their wedding of June  Lynda Beisel & Joshua Conner on their wedding of June  Valerie Meiners & Ryan Smith on their wedding of June  Darcy Woods & Ben Milsom on their wedding of June  Sara Berghoff & Derek Saul on their wedding of June 

During the summer we are encouraging everyone to focus on caring for God's creation by avoiding pollution of the land, water and air as much as possible. If we drive our cars less we will decrease air pollution (and save money, given the price of gasoline!). If we use St. Luke's Green Ministry reusable shopping bags we can decrease the amount of garbage we put in landfills. If we turn up the air conditioning just one degree and turn off lights we are not using, we can decrease the amount of electricity we use. When we were in the Holy Land in May, we went out in a boat on the Sea of Galilee and then walked along its shores; we saw the wildflowers growing along the hillside where the Sermon on the Mount was given; and we saw beautiful sunsets and sunrises over the hills of Galilee. We felt closer to Jesus because we looked at some of the scenes he saw and we wanted to see them the way he did: as signs of God's loving presence in our lives. May you feel God's presence this summer as you celebrate God's creation, give thanks for it and look for the lessons in it the way Jesus did. Grace and Peace, Kent Millard 3

Walls of Fear, Bridges of Peace by Bob Zehr

Peace be with you!

ABOVE:

Jerusalem/Bethlehem checkpoint FAR RIGHT:

Just a few blocks from the birthplace of Jesus on Manger Street, the separation wall looms overhead

The sign sponsored by the Israeli Department of Tourism drew a stunned quiet from those on the bus as we waited to be passed through the separation “fence” on our way from Jerusalem to Bethlehem. How could this part of the world have become so divided… the land of the birthplace of the great religions of the world? My perception of the past flashed before me as if we were traveling from East to West Berlin during the height of the cold war. Could this really be happening in a civilized country in the  century? A wall that separates the lands where Jesus was born and died. 4

As our bus was given the go ahead to move through the iron gate that separated the Palestinian Muslim and Christian people from the Israeli Jews’ daily life, we began to ask ourselves questions about this reality that appeared before us. Has religion again been used to drive wedges between peoples rather than unite them all under the loving hand of one God? What is the root of this immorality? What should our response be? We watched as the relative prosperity of the area surrounding Jerusalem devolved into a nearly third-world vision of life in Bethlehem. The unemployed lingered in the streets before boarded-up shops looking for anything better to do. The feeling of helplessness was

palpable. One could imagine the youth finding ways to express their anger and frustration. . . ways that most of us would find unimaginable and horrifying. While visiting the holy sites of Jerusalem we kept remembering that our new Palestinian Christian friends could not make the same kind of pilgrimage to these sites as we were allowed to do. Some could receive special permission from the Israeli government, but many were not even allowed access through the wall. While many of those behind the wall had expressed their frustrations through graffiti on the wall, Kent Millard kept reminding the group that it is through the hope we understand as Christians that we find strength to believe that people can and will find a better tomorrow. The hope and faith that through crucifying times a resurrection will follow. We could see that hope in the faces of the children at the Mar Elias school where Muslim and Christian students studied side by side. Some of the students who had visited St. Luke’s last year when studying at the University of Indianapolis were reunited with members of our group who had befriended them when they were visiting Indianapolis. One of the young women looked familiar, and after questioning her, I remembered that she had stood at our pulpit to tell her story about her goals and plans for a bright future. The smiles and optimism of the students showed signs of hope. We saw other signs of connection when we attended a worship service and one of the members of the praise band

raised his hand to say that he had visited St. Luke’s with the Bethlehem Bible College choir. He sang praises to God in Arabic with an infectious smile as the pastor encouraged his congregation to stay the course, have hope and faith. It was difficult to envision a world of hope when a group of us walked through the three checkpoints that Palestinians are required to go through when crossing from the west bank into the area of Jerusalem. As Americans we were waved through the barbed wire and fenced-in enclosures as we watched the Palestinians being subjected to a much more severe inspection procedure. There was no hope or joy in that morning. But I was proud that St. Luke’s had found ways of connecting to hope through the Mar Elias school and Bethlehem Bible College and through people like Norris Lineweaver, a member of St. Luke’s who is now the executive director of the Jerusalem YMCA. A trip like this was not only about visiting our holy sites but was about gaining a new perspective on how we can be part of the solution and part of the hope. The sign said “Peace be with You!” It is our job to look through the wall of separation to see the hope that is shared by Jews, Christians and Muslims alike and find ways to help each other as we search for the Peace of the one God in the world today. As the graffiti artist said: “Fear builds walls, peace builds bridges!” Peace be with You!

our world 5

The Social Principles by Rev. Brent Wright

This is Part Two of an ongoing series about the Social Principles of The United Methodist Church. To get to the full text of the Principles, go www.umc.org (under the Our Faith tab, choose Church & Society, and follow the “Read more” link at the bottom of the page), and you can find information and links to related materials at www.umc-gbcs.org. Have something to say about what you read? Contact Dr. Carolyn Scanlan at scanlanc@stlukesumc.com, or Rev. Marion Miller at millerm@stlukesumc.com.

The Nurturing Community

HUMAN SEXUALITY:

One of the features that's apparent upon reading the full text of the Social Principles is that they have been written through a communal, deliberative, iterative process over many years. The voice of the principles, while generally coherent, is not always uniform. This is especially clear in the language about issues that are controversial today, like homosexuality and how we feel about same-sex marriage.

We deplore all forms of the commercialization and exploitation of sex,…

MARRIAGE: We support laws in civil society that define marriage as the union of one man and one woman. At the same time, in THE SOCIAL COMMUNITY: Equal Rights Regardless of Sexual Orientation, we find this statement: We see a clear issue of simple justice in protecting [non-heterosexual persons'] rightful claims where they have shared material resources, pensions, guardian relationships, mutual powers of attorney, and other such lawful claims typically attendant to contractual relationships that involve shared contributions, responsibilities, and liabilities, and equal protection before the law. This language is more legalistic than anywhere else in the Social Principles; to this untrained ear, it sounds like a recognition that acknowledging same-sex marriages is a justice issue. What do you think about how our society ought to respond to long-term committed partnerships between same-sex partners? From a gospel perspective, should they be afforded the same status as marriage?

Where do you see sex being commercialized and exploited? Why is this a theological issue (i.e. what does this have to do with God; why should the church care)? The fact that sex is exploited is often talked about these days. What are some more subtle ways that sex is abused in our society— abuses that aren’t often recognized?

HOMOSEXUALITY: Homosexual persons no less than heterosexual persons are individuals of sacred worth. All persons need the ministry and guidance of the church in their struggles for human fulfillment, as well as the spiritual and emotional care of a fellowship that enables reconciling relationships with God, with others, and with self. The United Methodist Church does not condone the practice of homosexuality and consider this practice incompatible with Christian teaching. We affirm that God's grace is available to all, and we will seek to live together in Christian community. We implore families and churches not to reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends. We commit ourselves to be in ministry for and with all persons. This language has been the source of much argument and struggle within our denomination for many years now. This paragraph has undergone continual change since it

EXUALITY • MARRIAGE • HOMOSEXU 6

the church was adopted in  (at General Conference in , over  petitions were submitted proposing  different changes in the language) and remains among the most hotly debated topics for . Note the tension evident in the presence of both the 'incompatibility' sentence and the 'reject' sentence. What do you think of our statement? If you were going to submit a change, what would it be? (Compare this language with the sections on abortion [THE NURTURING COMMUNITY: Abortion] and war [THE POLITICAL COMMUNITY: Military Service and THE WORLD COMMUNITY: War and Peace]. Note the recognition of uncertainty and respect of both sides of the debate in those sections, while our church continues to struggle to include such language about homosexuality.)

ABORTION: Our belief in the sanctity of unborn human life makes us reluctant to approve abortion. But we are equally bound to respect the sacredness of the life and well-being of the mother, for whom devastating damage may result from an unacceptable pregnancy. In continuity with past Christian teaching, we recognize tragic conflicts of life with life that may justify abortion, and in such cases we support the legal option of abortion under proper medical procedures. We call all Christians to a searching and prayerful inquiry into the sorts of conditions that may warrant abortion. We commit our Church to continue to provide nurturing ministries to those who terminate a pregnancy, to those in the midst of a crisis pregnancy, and to those who give birth. We particularly encourage the Church, the government, and social service agencies to support and facilitate the option of adoption.

violent for a long time; what is the witness of the United Methodist Church on this issue—both through what we say about abortion and how we say it?

SUICIDE: A Christian perspective on suicide begins with an affirmation of faith that nothing, including suicide, separates us from the love of God (Romans :-). Therefore, we deplore the condemnation of people who complete suicide, and we consider unjust the stigma that so often falls on surviving family and friends. We believe that suicide is not the way a human life should end. Often suicide is the result of untreated depression, or untreated pain and suffering. The church has an obligation to see that all persons have access to needed pastoral and medical care and therapy in those circumstances that lead to loss of self-worth, suicidal despair, and/or the desire to seek physician-assisted suicide. …The Church opposes assisted suicide and euthanasia. Note especially the assertion of the church's responsibility. In addition to ministering to those who have been affected by suicide (stated later in that section), our statement calls the church to work to prevent suicide by making sure that folks have access to the care they need. The last statement (about assisted suicide) is as abrupt in context as it is in this excerpt; it appears to have been added as a single-sentence amendment at some point since the original paragraph was written. What do you think of this blanket statement? If you were called on to write a few sentences to explain this position, what might they be?

What do you think of these statements about abortion? The civic debate about abortion has been adversarial and

ALITY • ABORTION • SUICIDE • HUMA 7

Race Relations Study Circle Brings Inclusiveness Team Members New Awareness, Deeper Relationships by Mike Coppes & Maria Blake Race Relations Study Circles were established at St. Luke’s eight years ago, and more than 200 people from St. Luke’s, Barnes UMC and Scott UMC have participated. The goal for each study circle is to build bridges of racial understanding through the combined use of a study guide, discussion and social activities. The topics often lead to lively conversations among participants. The most recent installment of the St. Luke’s Race Relations Study Circle met for six weeks in April and May of 2007. This circle was particularly unique because it was comprised of the church’s Inclusiveness Team members, an ethnically-diverse group already committed to making St. Luke’s vision for a “just, compassionate and inclusive community” a reality in their own lives, as well as in the church and the world. The Inclusiveness Team chose the Race Relations Study Circle as a forum for deeper understanding on the topic of race relations and cultural experience. Sharing experiences and feelings amidst both laughter and tears, the end result was an affirmation of the Inclusiveness Team’s evolution into a fully-functioning, mature and supportive group. At its final dinner event, participants shared what the study circle had meant to them. One member stated “I am so grateful to be a part of such an authentic group of people willing to reveal themselves, even when it clearly hurts.” Another noted “I know this study allowed me to take new views into my everyday world and be more open and willing to challenge myself and others to expand their views.” Through experiencing the Race Relations Study Circle, the St. Luke’s Inclusiveness Team continues to challenge itself in creating a truly inclusive community, where all people are welcome to connect, celebrate and worship all of God’s creation.

ABOVE: ROW 1: Erica Kuchinski, Gustanna Chaney, Kim King, ROW 2: Andre Wilson, Stephanie Eckert, Denise Jean-Claude, ROW 3: Michelle Rivera, Steve Towle, Ruth Rivera, Bill Eckert, Julie Towle, Mike Coppes, Sandy Galvin, Amanda Maramba, Rev. Marion Miller

TOP: A

To learn more about the Inclusiveness Team’s vision, mission and activities, contact Rev. Marion Miller at 846-3404 or millerm@stlukesumc.com.

study circle dinner

community ministries 8

 & malaria Saving Lives: An Update

Chicago by Lori Crantford DOOR Spring Break Mission The people of St. Luke’s continue to be active in the important battle against AIDS and malaria. The AIDS Task Force recently allocated funds distributed from the Powerful Possibilities Outreach and Capital Campaign for the first half of  as follows:

Neema Children's Fund: ,. The Neema Children's Home in Eldoret, Kenya is an orphanage currently being built for children who are HIV+.

The Damien Center: ,. Angels on Wheels program provides

transportation to HIV+ clients through bus passes and taxi fares. Clients need transportation to medical appointments, to pick up prescriptions and documents for insurance, Medicaid or food stamps. There is a volunteer component to this program that could involve St. Luke's members.

BELOW: Children at the Neema Orphanage

Global Interfaith Partnership: ,. GIP is a coalition of  Jewish

BOTTOM:

and Christian congregations including St. Luke's to serve the increasing number of orphans resulting in the HIV/AIDS crisis in Kenya. These dollars will support services to children including housing needs and educational expenses.

The African version of scaffolding for the new orphanage

Rural HIV/AIDS Health Project: . Supported by the United Methodist Global AIDS Fund and the Center for Church and Global AIDS, Don Messer, E.D. Educational efforts to stamp out stigma and discrimination in rural Kenya.

The Mercy Foundation: ,. AIDS Education in Nigeria.

6. ,. To assist in the planning of a retreat at St. Luke's for persons infected and affected by HIV/AIDS (Spring ') On a recent trip to Kenya, Dr. Kent Millard, Dr. Carolyn Scanlan and Kendall Millard, a member of the St. Luke’s AIDS Task Force, were able to deliver the news to the leaders of the Neema Orphanage of the  gift from St. Luke’s. The news was received with tears of gratitude from Joshua and Miriam Mbithi, the leaders of the orphanage for HIV positive children. Writing from Kenya at the time, Dr. Millard said, “We held the  beautiful children who have been abandoned because they are HIV positive and prayed for their continued love and care. They will be getting the medication that will enable them to live fairly normal lives except for the stigma and rejection they receive because of their health status. 9

 & malaria

LEFT:

Mama & Baba (aka Joshua & Miriam Mbithi, founders of the Neema orphange)

RIGHT:

School 20 donation

Changing the World, Fletcher Place Style by Norm & Sue Stuart

Fletcher Place Community Center is a United Methodist supported ministry in Fountain Square at 1637 E. Prospect Street. The Executive Director is Rev. Jessi Langlie and the Assistant Director is Rev. Ken Williamson. People in need can come there for free meals, a thrift store, food pantry, preschool, several adult classes and a large Christmas Shopping Service where the clients choose the items and can provide their own Christmas gifts to their families.

ABOVE:

A hot meal is now served five days a week. Dinner meals are Monday and Wednesday. St. Luke’s has provided two dinners a month for over 20 years. The God’s Will Breakfast Ministry was started by a group of St. Luke’s men seven years ago. At first St. Luke’s was the only church involved, and only Tuesdays and Thursdays had meals. Now there are eight other churches working in this ministry; Fridays were added about a year ago. To date approximately 100,000 breakfast meals have been served to the poor, needy and homeless.

Hot meals served with love at Fletcher Place

community ministries 10

Saving Lives, cont’d from page 9

“We saw the new orphanage building that Stan Abell has been telling us about for the past year; it will be a beautiful facility and will be able to care for an additional  orphans. The need is great. “Joshua said he had been praying for additional funds to finish paying for the building and this will accomplish the task. He said St. Luke's has provided the majority of the funds for this new building as well as the hope it will provide for many more orphans. Please thank the congregation and assure them that their generous gifts to the Powerful Possibilities campaign is making a huge positive difference in the live of many children in need.” Meanwhile, back home again in Indianapolis . . . led by some very inspired sixth graders, the students, staff and

families of School  launched a highly successful fund drive for the Nothing But Nets initiative. Having a blast with events like the Pie-in-the-Face Piggy Bank Drive, a car wash, a staff vs. student basketball game, and a movie night, this inner-city school raised  to buy malaria nets! Coming from a school where over % of the students qualify for free lunches, and another nearly 10% qualify for reduced lunch—that kind of giving is Exhibit A of what it means to give from your heart without regard for yourself! Many lives will be saved by the School  community. School may be out for these children, but many of them learned a lesson that will last a lifetime—for them and for someone they will never meet.

The Thrift store allows families and individuals a place to get free clothing and household items. The clients register and are given scrip to use for the items. Everything is free. Clothing and household items are always needed. More than 17,000 have received help in the store. Clothing and household items are always needed.

Proud graduates of the men’s and women’s Survival Skills programs LEFT:

The Fletcher Place thrift store; donated items are always welcome and appreciated

RIGHT:

A Food Pantry provides food for families in the area of the center. St. Luke’s gives to the pantry, along with other churches. The preschool averages between ten and twelve children, (ages 4-5), to prepare them for kindergarten. Nine graduated this year and will go to School #20 (a St. Luke’s partner). Donations for tuitions can be given directly.

Bishop Mike Coyner with Fletcher Place children

Fletcher Place, cont’d from page 11

Life Skills classes for women, men and youth are taught by volunteers— how to shop for food, keep a checkbook, how to get along with a landlord, manage any money and in general, basic living concepts such as how to apply for a job. After Life Skills Classes, there are two computer classes; C1 is basic and C2 is more advanced. Job skills are learned. A lot of these students do get better jobs and are able to escape the poverty cycle that most are in. Adult Literacy classes help adults learn to read. This is sponsored by Indy Reads. Several St. Luke’s people volunteer for this worthwhile program. The Summer Camp lasts six weeks, with thirty children (ages 4-7), and is staffed by four University of Indianapolis students. This is held in the facility and includes some field trips. This is funded by an $8,000 grant. The Christmas Shopping Service gives poor and needy families an opportunity to shop for new clothes and toys. Families are interviewed to qualify for the program. A family member with a helping volunteer choose all the items. Last year over 300 families were assisted—families who otherwise would not have been able to afford a Christmas. There are many opportunities for volunteers—from tutoring to helping sort things in the thrift store and food pantry to donating clothing and household items, plus all new items for the Christmas Shopping Service, and even money. And of course, the cooking and serving of the meals St. Luke’s does. Five St. Luke’s members serve on the Fletcher Place Board. We welcome all volunteers, and we say, “no one has ever just come once!”

Good Sam Needs Your Help On Sunday, August 5 St. Luke’s Good Sam ministry has one of its biggest volunteer events to help with back-to-school activities at IPS 20 and you are invited to participate! Come to the modular building (just outside Entrance 8) at noon. There you can help sort, count and pack school supplies and backpacks. Then you can load up your car or van and help deliver these items to School 20. Or you can leave St. Luke’s shortly after noon to join a caravan of hearty souls traveling to IPS 20 for some heavy lifting, sorting and delivering books to the classrooms. Or you can sit down in an air conditioned space at St. Luke’s to write notes of appreciation to teachers. No matter what you choose, you can know that you are helping IPS students and teachers to get their school year started off well.

community ministries It’s Back to School Time! by Jayne Moynahan Thorne

When I was in grade school, each fall our parents had to locate a cigar box as a container for our school supplies to be kept in during class. Since my dad didn’t smoke cigars, it was always a challenge for my mom to find the right box, but somehow I always had pencils, crayons, a ruler, an eraser, scissors and paste (no glue sticks back then) in a sturdy cardboard cigar box with my name on it. It was a great feeling to walk into my classroom with new supplies! When my daughters were in school, we had a much longer list of things to buy and many more choices of containers for them to keep their new supplies. It was a great feeling as a mom to know that I had prepared my children with all the things they needed (and sometimes wanted!) to start off the school year. Now my grandson has a cool backpack with his monogram on it and lots of shiny, crisp, new items in it for him to have a successful 1st grade experience. Throughout the generations, fall is a new beginning for every student, but we know that there are some children whose parents can’t supply all the items needed for a successful school experience. That’s why many generous people at St. Luke’s are buying backpacks and school supplies to help kids get a good start for the 2007-2008 school year. Last year our focus was on our partner school, IPS 20, but because of your generosity, so many other students benefited as well. Not only did we supply School 20 with many of their students’ needs, but we helped the Scott UMC youth program, Outreach, Inc. for homeless teens, Martin Luther King Center’s Second Time Around Grandparent’s program, Barnes UMC community program, Manna From Heaven in Myra, Kentucky and School 54. Many ministry areas helped to make this happen last year—The Garden, Later at St. Luke’s, Good Sam, World Missions, Children, Vacation Church School, IPS 20 Team. This year we are combining our forces for a more coordinated effort. On the sidebar is a list of items to purchase when you are buying for your own kids or if you find yourself at Target or Wal-Mart and there is a great sale! Please place them in any of the bins marked “School Supplies” located at various locations around St. Luke’s or at The Garden any time between July 15 and August 26.

School Supplies List FALL 2007 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Backpacks No. 2 pencils Arrowhead pencil top erasers 12 inch rulers Notebook paper – wide rule Spiral notebooks – wide rule Crayons Yellow highlighter Colored pencils Glue sticks Kleenex Hand sanitizer Pocket folders – 6 colors Markers Red pens Blue pens

Please place backpacks and school supplies in the bins at St. Luke’s between July 15 and August 26, 2007 or bring them to the service where these items were requested. THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

world missions

Gala Raises Over $30,000 for World Missions by Peg Boodt

Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! Well, not quite. But there were water buffalo, chickens and bees! Event chair Sue Nonweiler reports that the gala held on April 14 at The Fountains in Carmel raised more than $30,000 to benefit World Missions projects. Auction items included an outing on Brookville Lake with Captain Kent Millard, Colts and Pacers paraphernalia, and even a day with Ken Hollis and his bees. During this evening, Ken was honored for his years of service, dedication and sense of humor on 85 World Mission work projects since his retirement from the corporate world. The auction raised nearly $4,500 to provide five water buffalo, 17 heifers, 27 hives of bees and 31 chickens for Heifer International. One highlight of the evening was a presentation by Shadraq Gonqueh, a dental student from Liberia. He is studying here so he can return to his homeland where there are only three dentists to serve the 4,000,000 men, women and children of the country of Liberia! He told of the need for young children to be held

down by as many as four adults to have a tooth extracted —all because there is no anesthesia available. After a round of generous bidding, led by auctioneer extraordinaire Norm Stuart, enough funds were raised to purchase two nitrous oxide machines and some X-ray equipment for Shadraq to take when he returns to Liberia. Sue also gave kudos to lots of others who helped make the evening a success: • To Jennifer Todd, Jilaine Stevens, Sherry Ellis, Jan Nichols, Jennifer Duba and others for all their hard work before, during and after the event; • To Dave Bolander, Mark Squire, and Doug Day for their fabulous entertainment that provided a perfect ending to the evening; • To all those in attendance who gave so generously through silent auction and live auction bids. We couldn’t have done it without you!

care ministries Are You Ready to Be a Stephen Minister? by Mary Katherine Schnitz Have you thought of serving St. Luke’s as a Stephen Minister? It’s a great experience. St. Luke’s enrolled as a Stephen Ministry congregation  years ago. In that time, nearly  people have been trained to minister to someone in need. Stephen Ministers meet one on one with people going through a difficult time in life. Here are some of our most frequently asked questions: What is the time commitment? We ask you to commit to serve for two years. Six months of that is training, followed by  months of service and continued education. Ken in front of a wall of World Missions’ successes ABOVE: Beautiful and motivational table centerpieces BELOW: Bidding was fierce! BOTTOM: Jan Nichols, Ken Hollis, and Sue Nonweiler LEFT:

When do we meet? Classes are on Tuesday evenings from :-. The first class is September , , in the Parlor. What do I do if I am interested? First pick up an application. They are found on the information board in the West Passage, between the Narthex and Robertson Chapel. After completing it, drop it into my mailbox (Mary Katherine Schnitz) in the office. I will call you to schedule a meeting just to discuss the training and class schedule. What kind of person becomes a Stephen Minister? A person who has been through something difficult in their own life and has now managed to make it through the most difficult time. Someone who is willing to give back and reach out to someone who is hurting. Perhaps it is someone who just wants to serve, or feels that we are called as Christians to help others. A good Stephen Minister does not judge, or try to “fix” another person. They are compassionate. What is the biggest misconception about becoming a Stephen Minister? Many people think that you need to be a biblical scholar. The truth is that most people just want someone to listen to them, not quote scripture. If you feel that you might be interested in becoming a Stephen Minister, contact Mary Katherine Schnitz at - or schnitzm@stlukesumc.com. Applications will be accepted until August 1.

world missions Planning for a Disaster? by Mary Katherine Schnitz

Since Katrina, communities have been asking the question, “What would we do if we had that kind of disaster here?” Community leaders, as well as agencies like the Red Cross, are turning to churches to help with these efforts. If this area of central Indiana should be hit with a severe tornado, fire, or other disaster, St. Luke’s has been designated as a “Red Cross Disaster Site” (versus a Red Cross Disaster Sight, which is how I would classify my teenage boys’ bedroom—Editor). We might be asked to supply shelter, food, medical help, or supplies. Working with the Red Cross staff, we are preparing to reach out to our community. Over the last several months, many St. Luke’s folks have been trained in various areas of disaster work. The Red Cross personnel have trained some in immediate response; how to set up a shelter, food and/or supply distribution, or other needed services. Many have participated in CPR training. Others have been trained to be Case Managers. Last March,  members of St. Luke’s took  hours of training to be certified as case managers and to help disaster victims with long-term problems. UMCOR, the United Methodist Committee on Relief, provided that training. Finally,  members of St. Luke’s staff attended a NAMI conference, National Alliance for Mental Illness. They studied the process of helping someone with mental illness through a disaster. May 4, 2007, an F-5 tornado destroyed First United Methodist Church in Greensburg, Kan. At least 10 people died and more than 90 percent of the residences and commercial buildings in the town of 1,400 people were destroyed. ABOVE:

UMNS photo by Jaime Oppenheimer, courtesy of The Wichita Eagle.

What is left to do? We are currently in the process of trying to identify our elderly St. Luke’s members, those with disabilities, or anyone who might need special attention following a disaster. Some forms have been sent out asking members to provide the church with the following information: Address; Emergency contact information, and Medical Needs. When disasters occur in the Indianapolis area, we can quickly locate St. Luke’s members. If you did not receive an emergency form and would like to provide that information, please contact Sylvia Forbes at - or forbess@stlukesumc.com. To learn more about what the United Methodist Church is doing globally to lend a hand when disaster strikes, visit www.new.gbgmumc.org/umcor. UMCOR’s mission is to alleviate human suffering— whether caused by war, conflict, or natural disaster—with open minds and hearts to all people.

The Day God Showed Up by Betty Brandt

“So if you want to know when God is in this or anything, look for love.” —Kate Braestrup Rainy day, wet shoes, hurried step—a sudden change in plans on April 11, 2007. Instead of driving my new-to-me PT Cruiser across town to get my hair cut, I was being driven to St. Vincent’s emergency room for x-rays and the confirmation that I had broken both bones in my right wrist. In the days and weeks to follow, I experienced some pain and lots of inconveniences, coped with doing things with my non-dominant hand, and asked for lots of help. It is a common theological question to ask where God is when misfortune strikes. No one came right out and said that I was being punished for some misdeed (some may have thought so). A few people suggested that God wanted to teach me to slow down and not pack so many tasks into each day. Others just showed up to chauffer me around, wash my hair, bring me food, give me hands-on-healings, sit with me in doctors’ offices, take me to the grocery store, work in my garden and hold my one good hand. Now I am not recommending a broken bone as a way to figure out the answers to theological questions, but I am recommending that you begin to look for God in all the acts of love that you offer to others or are offered to you. How would your image of yourself and others change if you believed every morning when you got out of bed that you were an extension of God’s love that day? Remember you may be all God has to work with on a certain day in a certain place. My certain day was April 11, 2007. My certain place was the hall outside of N103/104. God showed up that day. I don’t believe God showed up to punish me or teach me a lesson. God showed up to love me in the midst of misfortune. All God had to work with that day were God’s humble servants named Sylvia, Gary and Ken. Thanks be to them and to God!

I am recommending that you begin to look for God in all the acts of love that you offer to others or are offered to you.

Editor’s Note: Betty’s cast is now off and she is well on her way to a full recovery. We no longer have to read her left-handed handwriting (which some suggested might be better than her regular handwriting) or watch her do her highly entertaining physical therapy exercises . . . but she was a great running joke at the World Missions auction, with her cast-wrapped arm perpetually raised in the air, as auctioneer Norm Stuart would repeatedly ask, “Are you bidding, Betty?” For all we know, Betty may have single-handedly—so to speak—purchased a water buffalo, a nitrous oxide machine, and a day on a boat with Kent that night. Wonder what will happen The Day Her Visa Bill Shows Up? Seriously—Betty showed immense good spirits and patience and gratefulness during her ordeal and is right-handed as rain again—thanks be to God!

spiritual life center 17

umw

A Spa for the Spirit Seeking Positive Awareness Through Christ Who Strengthens Us! by Rev. Marsha Hutchinson Did you notice? Have you seen them? Can you tell who they are? I’m speaking of that group of wonderful women from St. Luke’s who experienced the 2007 United Methodist Women’s Spring Retreat! HINTS:

• • • • •

They They They They They

might appear relaxed, refreshed and filled with world peace. could be smelling of lavender. will be sporting a newly created tote bag. have many new BEST girlfriends! are renewed in the Spirit of God’s LOVE!!

The Spring Women’s Retreat at Waycross Retreat Center was a huge success for all pampered ladies who attended May 4 & 5. In the true sense of a SPA get-away weekend, the women were greeted with warm, lavender-scented cloths to wash off weary travel dust, followed by sparkling apple/cranberry juice with floating raspberries or a chilled glass of fresh lemon water. Next, guests made their way to their beautiful Waycross rooms where they found fresh lavender sprigs tied with ribbon and a tote bag containing pedicure kit, spa slippers, candle, chocolate, CD of Christian music, and a journal to write down peaceful thoughts and special memories.

SPA attendees had three APPOINTMENTS during the weekend: FRIDAY PM WITH MARSHA HUTCHINSON

TOP:

Marti Hunsucker working hard on her hand-painted tote

“The Power of a Positive Friend” including “OHHHH, The Masks We Wear” (Costumes, and skits were priceless; we laughed ourselves sick!!) SATURDAY AM WITH MINNIETTA MILLARD

BOTTOM:

Alison Staley and Kimberly Roop enjoying lunch together

“The Worthiness of the Female Spirit” (We felt empowered as Christian women!!) SATURDAY PM WITH SANDY CLARK

“Healing of Mind, Body, and Spirit” (We witnessed an amazing healing session!!)

There was also time for a quiet walk, meditation, or just enjoying the beautiful Brown County scenery. SPA tables were stunningly arranged with fresh greens, candles, and orchids and river rocks containing spiritfilled words to take home. Craft tables were available during the retreat to create a SPA original designer tote bag, or to create a “soakin-the tub” bath salts mixture to take home for later. The food was outstanding, including snacks available around the clock for those who stayed up late getting to know new friends or catching up with old ones. The weekend closed with a powerful circle of worship with hand-washing and communion, and we felt a closer connection to God and to each other as Christian women.

But wait…just before packing for Indianapolis as refreshed and relaxed women of God, the FINALE…a musical style show of one-of-a-kind hand-made tote bags. No trendy boutique has ever seen such designs!! A huge hug of thanks to my SPA committee for much work, creativity, love, and laughter: Tonda Zeek, Tiffany Raidy, Kathy Alexander, Nancy Keller, Minnietta Millard, Sandy Clark, and Carolyn Pugh for photos… you are such “Powerful Positive Friends!” TOP:

Ladies of the SPA

RIGHT: Tonda Zeek and Tiffany Raidy perform the hand-washing service

Willie Mae Bender and Marsha Hutchinson display the originality of a newly painted tote LEFT:

youth The Second “W” in WOW—Worship by Peter Howe

Back in January and February , as the Youth Visioning initiative continued to evolve out at the Lodge, the third element in the “WOW” acronym (Welcoming-Outreach-Worship) began to crack its shell and emerge into the light. The Visioning team had reached a consensus that the youth worship experience had settled into a routine that was leaving people restless and needed more energy, despite all the life that their own spirit band Lightswitch had brought to the experience. Kids were distracted, giggling and talking during worship on Sunday nights, and so it was decided that the youth themselves needed to sit down and get focused on what would resonate with their peers in a worship experience. As a result of these very candid discussions, the Worship Team was born.

Sara Andler, Abby Grenda, and another parent voice, Sara Cobb. Over time, others came on board, or were drafted, to help: Matt Howe, Bennett Fuson, Traci Pettigrew, Jack Andrews, Avery Hollenback and Grace Hertz all contributed to the effort. Our early discussions were full of possibilities, which became refined over time into what we called “spirit components” of the worship experience. What I heard repeatedly, expressed in many different ways, was a desire to find meaning and relevance, and a connection with God and the Gospels, through which youth could relate their own personal stories and lives. The group decided first that they would establish a theme each month that would become the touch point for discussion, youth sermons (message), music, prayer, and scripture readings. The first list of possible themes was long and far-reaching, but was narrowed down by the Youth Leadership Council and the Worship Team according to the power and relevance of each one as it related to youth today, and so that the Gospel could speak with relevance to teenagers. Realizing that the youth came up with the themes themselves, you can’t help but be impressed: “Relationships,” “The Past” (sin and forgiveness—God at work in our past), “Thankfulness,” “Change,” “Life and Death,” “Choices,” “Stress,” and, as we said goodbye to our high school seniors in June, “The Future.”

As the parent advisor to the initial team, I worked with some very thoughtful, insightful, and outspoken youth who enthusiastically seized the opportunity to affect change that would hopefully be spiritually rewarding for all the youth who attended on Sunday nights. Griffy Housemeyer was the youth leader in these discussions, but equally as vocal were Aaron Neese, Doug Tousley,

If you haven’t attended a youth worship service at the Lodge since the Worship Team started its work, whether you have a student involved in the ministry or not, it is uplifting and meaningful for youth and adults alike. The Worship Team has met consistently every other week, Sunday mornings after Sunday school for two hours each time, to plan the upcoming worship experiences for

LEFT: Lightswitch

performs during youth worship service, senior recognition Sunday

RIGHT: Abby

Grenda delivers the message

our youth. While the concept is “youth addressing youth,” parents can come away from the experience with a better understanding of how youth ministry can influence kids today. In this world of confusing and conflicting messages, misguiding advertising, and social pressure and contradictions, the youth get grounded again at Youth Group in ideas and conversations about the things that really matter to them, without being pressured or spun.

It worked. It was a “wow” experience unto itself.

It is pure goodness. Lightswitch is a great testament to the talent that our kids have and bring to the worship experience, and they have moved outside of the “songbook” songs that all the youth know to incorporating secular music that the kids listen to every day, but which suddenly resonate with new meaning when brought into the context of worship. As Brian Durand said the other day: “God can actually speak through the Goo-Goo Dolls’ song ‘Better Day.’” Music is lived in the youth congregation through standing and clapping, singing and dancing. They know all the words, and the music grounds them in their spiritual home, Luke’s Lodge, in the same way that familiar hymns make us feel at home in the “big church” sanctuary. This year, the youth Worship Team planned the “Youth Sunday” service in the sanctuary, for the whole church, which many of you probably attended. In talking with Griffy Housemeyer, I learned that they approached Youth Sunday differently this year, and as he explained, I was struck by the awareness and sensitivity behind his explanation: In the past, the focus was on showcasing, for the greater congregation, all the neat things that the kids were doing “out there”—in the other building. This year, their expressed intent was to blend together with some of the traditional elements of the adult worship, with some traditional hymns, and respecting the order of service, so that the youth-led worship didn’t end up feeling foreign or uncomfortable.

The Easter Sunrise service at Luke’s Lodge, as I said to Brian, was such a great way to start the day. Our new Associate Youth Director, Kathleen Marvin, began the service with a beautiful a capella solo. The youth were in dresses, and ties and jackets, with smiles and plenty of faith at : on a Sunday morning. They made music, preached, prayed, and celebrated the resurrection of a truly living God. According to Griffy, there is less fidgeting in the seats since the Worship Team began crafting the youth worship services. Less giggling. More paying attention. The Worship Team is having a workshop this summer to prep a new team for next year. Taylor Greene will be a part of the planning, as will June Wiley, and Kathleen Marvin and Andy Engle from staff. Several of the youth have been involved in invocation training, so you will see them in church soon. Think of them as the tip of the iceberg representing the depth of the spiritual life that is being fostered in the youth ministry by the Worship Team, the Welcoming group, and the Outreach committee. Together with our incredible staff and volunteers, the participating youth of St. Luke’s are experiencing God and His works in our daily lives with the help of the Worship Team—another offshoot of the incredible Vision of our youth—for their ministries, in their times.

May Endowment Celebration Brings Life to Legacies by Julia Johnson and Lori Crantford

On Sunday, May , over  persons joined together for a luncheon recognizing and celebrating the St. Luke’s Endowment. Tom Lugar, a St. Luke’s founding member, gave the opening prayer, and Mark Helmus, St. Luke’s Endowment Chair, congratulated everyone on their efforts as St. Luke’s Endowment has grown to over . million. Two gardens were represented at this annual event. First, attendees had an opportunity to view the tree-of-life artwork commissioned from artist Julie Ball for The Sower’s Garden from their Endowment proceeds. Then, representing the Endowment of St. Luke’s satellite ministry, The Garden, former Lt. Governor John Mutz motivated the audience by reminding everyone of the difference St. Luke’s makes in the community through education, outreach, and presence. He emphasized the need for that to continue into the future through the endowment possibilities, and the point was further made by introducing the St. Luke’s Scholarship recipients for . This year’s scholarship recipients are Alexa Grau, Alissa Fritz and Traci Pettigrew. Generally, there are only two recipients selected from the applications received, but because of a very special set of circumstances, three very worthy young women were celebrated this year.

Alissa Fritz

went to Carmel High School and will be attending Indiana University this Fall. She has been involved in Young Life, a school-based teen ministry program, and has been a leader in their Capernum service (a Young Life program for the mentally disabled). She also mentors younger school children every other day through a program in the Carmel-Clay schools. She wrote in her application, “Service is a daily commitment and part of my life. The emotional benefits of helping others outweigh any other activity. If every person was willing to be a “servant” in some small way everyday, I believe that the world would become a better place.” Upon

learning of her selection as a St. Luke’s Christian Life Scholarship recipients, Alissa contacted Rev. Brian Durand to say that in light of having received a Lilly Foundation scholarship that provides a full ride to I.U., and after prayer and much thought, that she was so thankful for the blessing of support she had already received and wanted someone else to receive the St. Luke’s Christian Life Scholarship to experience that kind of blessing. So while Alissa won’t be receiving financial assistance from the St. Luke’s Scholarship, she was recognized for her achievements as a young woman who exemplifies the qualities of this particular scholarship.

Alexa Grau just graduated from Pike High School and has participated in the International Baccalaureate program all four years. She is a member of the National Honor Society, was captain of the varsity track team and a member of the varsity cross country team. Alexa has been a volunteer in toddler child care at the church and highly involved at school in volunteer opportunities, including mentoring in a second-grade class and working with foster care children through The Villages. She wrote in her application, “Through the values of compassion and understanding, you can accomplish more in connecting with other human beings than anyone might originally imagine, and truly make a difference in the world.” Alexa will be attending

George Washington University in Washington, D.C. and is interested in a career in International Relations, “working for the World Bank an Embassy or in the field of Political Science.”

Traci Pettigrew

also attended Carmel High School. She is very active in the arts, having been the dance captain of the Blue & Gold mixed Show Choir, the Accents (girls state-winning show choir), and the Ambassadors (mixed top show choir), along with many other activities. Traci has provided lots of leadership to St. Luke’s Youth, including serving as the first chair of the new Youth Leadership Council and interning last summer with the youth department. In addition to teaching dance to younger children and a myriad of school and church activities, she also has organized a summer carnival and silent auction in her backyard for the past several years that raises over  each year for the IU-Kenya project. She wrote in her application, “There are so many people who just need hope and as a youth, it is my job to show them that hope. Jesus showed us hope and we are all his children.” She plans to study Arts Administration at Indiana University. Rev. Brian Durand, Youth Pastor, said “All of the applications this year were outstanding, and like last year, it is hard to choose just two. I’d love to provide scholarships for all of them. These young women, however, stood out of the group for both their understanding of the importance of living their Christian values and their demonstrated commitment to serving others. Thank you so much for providing these scholarships to recognize outstanding young people. The opportunity to highlight how much our youth contribute to our Christian community is such a blessing.”

FAR LEFT: Scholarship recipients Alissa Fritz, Alexa Grau, Traci Pettigrew with Rev. Brian Durand

Former Lt. Gov. John Mutz speaks at the annual Endowment luncheon ABOVE:

For more information regarding St. Luke’s Endowment and the possibilities of your involvement, contact Julia Johnson, johnsonj@stlukesumc.com or Lori Crantford, crantfordl@stlukesumc.com.

endowment 23

A “Guiness” World Record Profiling Youngest Published Composer Veronica Bigham by Derek Hakes I once asked the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers who was the youngest composer in the handbell world. After doing some research, they responded that a 15-year-old girl had a piece published back in the 1960s; assuming she is still alive, that would make her roughly 55 years old. If she is deceased, she is probably rolling over in her grave since the youngest composer can now be found here at St. Luke’s. At only 14 years old, Veronica Bigham receives the honor of being the youngest published handbell composer with her first piece, “Light of Peace,” for three to six octaves of handbells or handchime instruments. Due out August 2007, it will be available from From the Top Publishing in Albuquerque, New Mexico. If you ask Veronica, she will say she only wrote four notes. What she does not completely realize is those four notes formed the basis for a good majority of the piece. Given the fact this piece is based on a series of sequences built around her four-note motif, her contribution is what made this piece come to life. Veronica and her mother, Patricia, have been active with the handbell ministries since 1996; Patricia was taught to ring when Bill Chase was director of adult handbells, and she officially began ringing when Chuck Goehring became music director. Veronica began her ringing career when Veronica Bigham Kim Harvey was children’s handbell director. Not only are Veronica and Pat active in the music department, they are also on paid staff in childcare in addition to acting as assistants to the entire handbell ministry. Pat works at Calumet Asphalt as office manager, and Veronica will be going into the eighth grade at Eastwood Middle School this coming August. It is not uncommon for a ringer to develop a musical sense once they become acclimated to the instrument. What is uncommon is when a ringer develops such a passion for the art that ringing alone becomes blasé. This is the case with Veronica, who is an active solo ringer, mentor to younger ringers, and now the latest, a composer. Developing a sixth sense of form and technique, Veronica is not afraid to ask, “What if,” accepting and exceeding any challenge given to her. All of these qualities make her a rare gem and a dream come true on the directorial side. Veronica has only begun to delve into and understand a more complicated side of the musical world. Her interest and passion, however, remain so high that—who knows!—she may be the next greatest female composer of our time. How far she will go is in God’s hands, but given that she aspires to teach music in her adult years, I would venture to guess she has already begun to trust her future to Him. As Scripture promises, this will only result in a future of abundant blessings and joy. We look forward to seeing how far Veronica Bigham will fly.

music ministries 24

St. Luke’s Handbell Choir Prepares for “SummeRing” Festival in Lexington by Jennifer Huber Members of the St. Luke’s Wesleyan Ringers handbell ensemble will celebrate the nation’s birthday in a distinctive way this year. From June 29 to July 1, the choir will be one of more than 100 groups participating in the Area V SummeRing handbell festival in Lexington, Kentucky. “We’re very excited that we were asked to participate and are looking forward to a full weekend,” says Derek Hakes, conductor of the Wesleyan Ringers. Not only will the 14-member group be part of the massed concert on Sunday afternoon, but they will also present the opening concert on Friday evening, which they auditioned for. The Friday concert will feature eight full-length numbers —including both religious and secular pieces—such as “Thy Strong Word” by John Behnke, “He Leadeth Me” arranged by Cynthia Dobrinski, “Pirates of the Caribbean” arranged by Kevin McChesney, and “Breathe” arranged by Hakes himself. An additional piece, “Light of Peace,” was arranged by Hakes and 14-year-old member Veronica Bigham (see left). Members Chuck Bruess, Emily Kolarich, and Veronica Bigham will perform solo pieces, while the mother/ daughter combination of Karen and Sam Parkinson and Pat and Veronica Bigham will play “Flight of the Bumblebee” as a handbell quartet. “I really like the pieces that we are playing,” says group member Leslie Cunningham. “They are challenging, but I think the audience will enjoy the concert.” The choir has been

Don’t miss our

practicing much of the repertoire for months, even adding additional rehearsal times. The adult division will be divided into two groups based on skill level: the Tins will play slightly easier level-two music, and the Coppers will play more challenging levelthree music, as graded by the American Guild of Handbell Ringers. The Wesleyan Ringers will take part in workshops and classes on Saturday, though most of the time will be spent rehearsing for Sunday’s concert. The concert will feature nine pieces, including three pieces performed by the Tins, three by the Coppers, and three performed in a massed ensemble. Conductors Tammy Waldrop and Jeffrey Honoré will direct the adult and youth divisions, respectively. “It’s really something to hear all the groups ringing as one,” says Hakes. “And getting to work with such well-known conductors and composers is a bonus.” The massed ensemble will play “A Joyous Procession” by Kevin McChesney, “Trilogy on ‘All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name’” by Tammy Waldrop, and “An American Medley” by Anna Laura Page as part of the concert that concludes the weekend. “I know that it will be a long weekend,” says Hakes, “but it is also a great opportunity for all of us. To have the chance to be a part of the festival is an honor, and I’m very proud of all this group has accomplished.”

start-up dates

VOCAL ENSEMBLES Children’s Choirs: Tuesday, August 21, Debra Nethercott, Director Chancel Choir: Thursday, August 23, Mark Squire, Director New Song: Tuesday, August 28, Cheryl West, Director Joyful Sound: Thursday, September 6, Charles Manning, Director

HANDBELL ENSEMBLES Derek Hakes, Director of Handbell Ministries Wesleyan Ringers: Wednesday, August 22 Joyful Rhythms: Thursday, August 23 Reflections: Sunday, August 26 Cheerful Chimes: Sunday, September 9

More details will be available in the upcoming issue of Fall/Winter Offerings. Contact the director listed if you have questions.

Dear St. Luke’s by Rev. Brent Wright

Two National Music Conventions Make “Organ Stops” at St. Luke’s by Charles Manning July will be busy for St. Luke’s Music Ministries as two national music conventions meeting in Indianapolis have scheduled organ sessions that will feature the St. Luke’s Goulding & Wood Pipe Organ, completed in 1999. The National Association of Pastoral Musicians will have an “organ crawl” on Monday morning, July 9. This curious term refers to a demonstration session during which convention attendees will have a chance to examine the organ “hands on,” see the organ chambers and pipes, and hear a short program of varied organ music. As part of the national convention of the Organ Historical Society, meeting for the first time in Indianapolis, I am honored to play a demonstration program on the historic Sanborn organ, now being restored, at the former Central Avenue United Methodist Church, St. Luke’s founding congregation. This convention session, scheduled for Thursday, July 12, will include historical information about the organ, which is still essentially in its original condition, as well as additional plans for the restoration of the magnificent Victorian building located at Central Avenue and 12th Street. The Organ Historical Society convention will also present renowned concert organist Thomas Murray (photo above left) in a free program open to the public on Friday evening, July 13, 8PM, at St. Luke’s. Mr. Murray is Professor of Music and University Organist at Yale University. Widely known for his interpretations of Romantic organ repertoire and orchestral transcriptions, his many recordings are highly acclaimed by critics and the public alike. Mr. Murray’s concert at St. Luke’s will include organ works by Felix Mendelssohn, Franz Liszt, and Maurice Duruflé, as well as a hymn to be sung by the audience. A free-will offering will be received. July will be a month to remember for organ enthusiasts at St. Luke’s and throughout central Indiana!

music ministries 26

Rev. Brent Wright has accepted the pastor position at Jamestown UMC. His last Sunday at St. Luke’s was June . As Lauren and I prepare to leave the city bustle for green fields and quiet… well, everything, I am full of the range of emotions—excitement to learn about small-town life and ministry, sadness at leaving behind friends, satisfaction over the opportunity to follow Christ's call, anticipation of new friendships and yet unknown mentors, fear about all that I don't know about how to be a small-church pastor, eagerness over the chance to preach and lead a church on my own, gratitude for four years' memories at St. Luke's, love for my colleagues and for so many folks alongside whom I've been privileged to serve. I'm humbled to be called at all; the call to lead a part of the Body of Christ in living the gospel is profoundly beyond me. And yet over and over I've been a witness of the Holy Spirit's astonishing

clergy Friends clergy team. I will always be grateful for the friends and mentors the staff have been for me. I will sorely miss the experience of worshiping with you on Sunday mornings, on the Longest Night, at Taizé services, on Ash Wednesday, Holy Thursday, and Good Friday, for All Saints, and especially the Wednesday noon services through Advent and Lent. Easter  was a spiritual highlight that I will remember with gratitude for a long time. Nothing can compare to the majesty of pulling out all the stops in the Sanctuary of St. Luke's!

work, bringing grace and divine peace where there should logically be only fear or frustration. You've taught me so much about God, about myself, about life together. Your compliments and caring feedback, your willingness to follow my attempts to lead, your commitment to helping me appreciate the work of God in and through me have been the hands of God shaping me and my ministry. Your voices have been the voice of God. Your encouragement and support, day after day and especially while I navigated the long road through the candidacy process, have been the embrace of God. Time after time God has whispered to me, "Keep going; I'm with you!" through your love and care. You've given this performer a chance to stretch, to grow, and to have more fun than I thought was allowed in church! From the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play the Celebrant in Bernstein's MASS to Serengeti Eddie, Krumbs, and Professor Loon at VCS, you helped me to laugh and to stretch, to take a leap of faith that I'll never forget. You gave me the chance to work with and learn from an extraordinarily committed staff, from the facilities team to the administrative staff, from the program staff to the

As I look ahead, I see a whole new set of lessons to be learned, skills to be honed, and experiences of God to be shared. I am excited to meet God in the people of Jamestown UMC, and I can't wait to watch the Holy Spirit move among that congregation. That said, you will always be my first congregation. You helped me find my legs as a pastor; you helped me believe that I am a pastor. Being called home to begin my ministry was a powerful experience for me. Four years later, being sent forth by my home church to live the gospel with another community is an honor that's beyond words. Even as I live and serve elsewhere, St. Luke's will always be a home for me, and I look forward to serving alongside you for many years to come. Grace and peace, Brent P.S.—Some Sunday, when you're in the mood for something different, come by and worship with Lauren and me in Jamestown! Just don't come all at once (I think this would violate the town fire code). P.P.S.—Lauren adds that the parsonage is always open—to anyone bearing gifts from Starbucks. FAR LEFT: ABOVE:

Brent & Lauren Wright

Brent added much laughter to Vacation Church School

staff Who’s New, or Gently Recycled, on the St. Luke’s Staff? by Lori Crantford The new Green Ministry at St. Luke’s is permeating nearly every aspect of our lives, even here at Command and Control. Well, I suppose technically heaven is Command and Control, but down here we make the Sunday bulletin and order the donuts, so I think we know who’s really in charge. Anyway. Some changes have taken place on the St. Luke’s staff, and we thought you might like to meet some of the new and slightly re-used staff who are a daily part of this congregation’s life. In her book A Girl Named Zippy, author Haven Kimmel says about her hometown of Mooreland, Indiana, “In  the population of Mooreland was about three hundred people; in  the population was three hundred, and in , and , and , and so on. One must assume that the number three hundred, while sacred, did not represent the same persons decade after decade. A mysterious and powerful mathematical principle was at work, one by which I and my family were eventually governed. Old people died and new people were added, and thus what was shifting remained constant.” Likewise, at St. Luke’s, what is shifting is remaining constant. As we say good-bye to Brent Wright and celebrate his success and time here, that means we are down to  full-time associate pastors. Oops. Or maybe that’s four. Yep, four. Wait, make that five again. Joining Carolyn Scanlan, Brian Durand, Marsha Hutchinson and Marion Miller as full-time associate pastors at St. Luke’s is new CTS graduate Rev. Stan Abell. Of course Stan is no newcomer to St. Luke’s, having been on staff part-time as worship host at The Garden at Oak Hill since its inception in January . But starting July , Stan will become a full-time associate pastor at St. Luke’s. And we thought you’d like to know a little bit more about him.

Stan was born and raised in Paducah, Kentucky. Following graduation from the University of Kentucky with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, Stan went to work in the retail industry doing undercover stories on price gouging and thread counts. Ok, not really. He did go into the retail industry, becoming the manager of the Polo Ralph Lauren store at Keystone at the Crossing here in Indianapolis. When that store was getting ready to close, Stan was offered a position in New York City and realized he was a crossroads in his life. He discussed it with his then-fiancee and now wife, Jenny, who was teaching school here in Indianapolis, and realized he wanted to go into teaching. “I’d been working part-time as a teacher’s aide with severely handicapped kids, and I’d started coaching football at Northview Middle School,” Stan says. “I really loved kids and realized I had a natural chemistry with them, so I decided to go into teaching.” He enrolled at IUPUI in the fall of  and by  he was a history teacher at Carmel High School. By , even though Stan loved what he did, he says he felt a “slow burn, a nagging sensation that I was being drawn into something more, called to do something that uses all the gifts and talents that God has given me.” Still teaching full time, Stan took one class at Christian Theological Seminar (“CTS”), and was hooked. Then, he says, “a series of events unfolded over a matter of days that hit me like a two by four.”

First, Kent Millard called Stan and wanted to talk about with him and Linda McCoy about an opportunity to become the worship host at the about-to-be-launched second Garden location at Oak Hill. Next, a call came from the financial department at CTS with the very unexpected news of the receipt of the President’s Scholarship— tuition paid for four years, a stipend for three. Then the very next day Stan learned Rev. Stan Abell that Kent had been invited to introduce rock star, activist (and now Nobel Peace Prize nominee) Bono at the Heartland of American tour in Indianapolis.

Now, if you know anything about Stan Abell, it is that he has a major thing for Bono. Not just the music, but an admiration of his spirituality, his Christianity, his humanitarianism. Stan said to Kent, “If Martin Luther King were coming to town, and I’d been invited to meet him, don’t you think I’d turn to you and ask you to come with me? This is really pretty much the same scenario.” That event was the very one where both Stan and Kent heard Bono’s challenge about AIDS—“what will you tell your grandchildren when they ask what you did about an entire continent dying of AIDS?”—that was the impetus for a trip to Africa in  and an Emmy-award winning documentary about the fight against AIDS. Or, as Stan puts it, “that was the night I got my marching orders.” Oak Hill launched in January , and that spring Stan resigned from his teaching position to pursue seminary work full time, all the while putting in  hours a week for The Garden. Now that he has graduated cum laude from CTS, Stan looks forward to continuing his work at The Garden and expanding his role at St. Luke’s, continuing as co-chair of the AIDS Task Force and working in the areas of outreach, education and communication.

to be able to put my gifts and talents to use here. It feels like I’ve come full circle.” Stan and Jenny have two children, Annie () and Harry (). Jenny teaches at Crooked Creek Elementary. Stan will be preaching at all three services at St. Luke’s on Sunday, July . If anyone wants to bring Bono along with them to church that day, that’d be cool.

Other Staff Stuff:

Kathleen Marvin joins the staff out at Luke’s Lodge at Associate Director of Youth Ministries. She graduated from Butler University with a degree in religious studies. Why religious studies? “I got involved in my church back home (1st United Methodist Church in Bloomington) and when I came back to school discovered I had a passion for it. I wanted to make an educated decision about my faith, wanted to understand other religions, other points of view, but ultimately be able to articulate to others ‘here’s why I’m a Christian.’ I think it’s really important that we not only understand each other’s religions, but really know why we are what we are.” Kathleen Marvin

Stan and Jenny first walked into St. Luke’s on Christmas Eve —Carver McGriff ’s last Christmas Eve service as senior pastor. When Kent Millard came in , Stan was completely drawn to his style of preaching. “It was like he was talking to me, I felt like I was home. I told Jenny,” Stan continues, “that when I found a church that I thought was doing what Jesus said to do, I’d go to that church. And that’s what I found at St. Luke’s.” Looking to the future, Stan says “I believe we are in a time of opportunity at St. Luke’s, and I am so thankful to have the chance to be part of a church that has the passion, energy and resources to do good in the world. I’m excited

Kathleen joined the staff in March and is thrilled to be here. She is fully immersed in the whole high school ministry thang—worship, bible study, music, work camps, you name it. “The kids are incredible and talented,” she says. “They have a lot to learn, and a lot to say about their faith. I’m learning right along with them. It’s great.” As if she’s not busy enough—Kathleen is getting married to her fiancé, Tom Headington, in Bloomington on October . Her sister is getting married this summer; her brother next spring. Sounds like Kathleen’s parents could use some prayers!

staff Staff, cont’d from page 29

how it should be. It may be behind the scenes, but I know it’s important.”

Ryan McMenamin is another example of St. Luke’s human recycling program. Ryan first joined the St. Luke’s staff part-time as a member of the custodial team while going to school. He then came on-board in the front office, as part-time afternoon receptionist and Bulletin Boy (action figure sold separately), running and folding the Sunday bulletins each week. Secretly, believe it or not, these were not Ryan’s life ambitions. A New Media major at IUPUI with an emphasis on computer animation, web design and graphics, Ryan has now taken on the full-time job recently vacated by Kit Williams as St. Luke’s Technical Director. You’ll see Ryan every Sunday in the balcony at the light and sound board, ably assisted by some great volunteers, who together run (who knew!) the lights and the sound and all things technical on Sunday mornings. Ryan’s duties extend to working special events (like weddings and funerals and concerts), duplication of worship service DVDs, light and audio equipment maintenance, creation of Power Point for Sunday morning, etc.

Kathy Alexander probably wouldn’t want me to describe her as recycled. And she’s not really. In some respects, she’s fresh as a daisy. A rose among thorns. The lily of our valley. One flower short of a full bouquet? Ryan McMenamin

Before joining the St. Luke’s staff, Kathy was the owner of Gilbert’s Florist for sixteen years. After selling the business, she stayed on as an employee until coming to work here this past April. Kathy took on Ryan’s previous duties (“Bulletin Babe,” anyone?) as well as the Herculean task of organizing the workroom, which she did with such speed and aplomb that we still haven’t recovered.

The truth of the matter is that Kathy has been working at St. Luke’s for a long time— now she just gets paid to hang around. In the eight years she’s been attending, she has Kathy Alexander co-chaired Leah Circle, worked in Deaf ministry, been part of the Youth Commission, ushered, cochaired the Hospitality Commission and holds babies in the East Wing one Sunday morning a month. Like so many Ryan and his family (mom Bonnie, who is the Adminothers, Kathy feels a special connection to St. Luke’s. “It’s istrative Assistant in Music Ministries; his dad Dan and sislike coming home every Sunday, and now it’s like coming ters Kerry and Erin) began attending St. Luke’s in . home every day.” “We started coming because we came to St. Luke’s for the / service and knew we had found our church.” Ryan has Kathy has a son, Tony, who she really really likes now that sung with the Later@St. Luke’s singers, helped design the he’s  and doesn’t live at home anymore. youth Web site, and recently became a Stephen Minister, “because I wanted to so some outreach and that work Welcome aboard, everyone! speaks to me.” Ryan finds his new position challenging but “very definitely enjoyable.” What he loves the most is when everything goes absolutely right on Sunday mornings. “When that happens,” he explains, “no one notices what I do, and that’s

WELCOME! new

members

The following persons completed the February & March Membership classes. The next opportunities to join St. Luke’s are August 11 & September 8 Contact Sylvia Forbes at 846-3404 or forbess@stlukesumc.com to register.

May 2007 Amanda Baker Lisa Baldwin John Browning Carole Browning Eric Gellenbeck Celeste Gellenbeck Tanya Jungbauer Henry Macler, III

Denise Macler David Maxwell Emily McIntyre Shawn Mercer Greg Stewart Kristi Tiefel William Turner

Design on More than a Couple of Dimes by Julia Johnson For any HGTV fans reading this, you will recognize that watching any design show will lead you to believe it can all be done in half an hour. I have learned through many St. Luke’s projects that there is always much work done “behind the scenes” before a hammer or saw is involved. Applied Engineering under the watchful eyes of our own Trustee, Bill Sigman, has been busily working on the new boiler system that will be replacing an antique version of today’s systems. This affects a major part of our physical plant and will have demolition, construction and new pipes aplenty. You may remember the Communion with the pipeworks on the cover. Bill Sigman has recruited St. Luke’s longtime member Norman Hartsock as our project manager. He will work with Rich Potterf, Ed Simpson,

and myself to keep everything running smoothly while transition occurs. You will probably begin to see signs in mid-fall after the plans have been put out for bid and trustees begin work with the selected mechanical contractor. If you see Bill or Norm, give them your support. Also, a big thanks to Kelly Queisser, Jeff Peek and the Finance Committee for working with Salin Bank to put together financing for this project. There may not be cranes or bulldozers, but lots of activity occurring as we “Design on More than a Couple of Dimes.”

facilities

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church •  West  Street • Indianapolis, Indiana 

COMMUNION JULY / AUGUST 2007

NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID INDIANAPOLIS, IN PERMIT NO. 1569

Address Service Requested

This is the second in a series submitted by the T.I.M.E. committee about real ways to be in ministry everyday. Have an idea? Send it along to thornej@stlukesumc.com.

T.I.M.E. at Work • • • •

Smile before you answer the phone—it will affect your tone of voice Accept criticism with grace—recognize areas that need to be improved Deliver criticism with grace—mentor or coach a struggling co-worker Re-read e-mails before you send them (you know the ones...) • Greet co-workers with a kind word • Always keep chocolate and tissues in your office • In times of stress—pray! • In times of joy—praise! • Ask someone new out to lunch • Do something kind—anonymously • Give each meeting/conversation your undivided attention—be fully present • Be respectful of established policies and procedures • Celebrate and be in gratitude for the gifts you bring to your job