APRIL—JUNE 2011
APRIL—JUNE 2011
Happy Trails
A Rancher’s Son Rides Into Ministry Sunset
Blazing Trails
New Refugee Ministry
Trail of Cheers
Smiles & Hope in Haiti — —
mission | from the editor
together in ministry everyday
Dear Reader: Perhaps, when you received this issue of St. Luke’s Together In Ministry Everyday magazine, you noticed some thing different about it. Possible thoughts which might have run through your head include: 1. The church got a shrink ray. 2. Your new weight lifting class is really working, and you are bulking up beyond your wildest dreams. 3. The dog ate the rest of the magazine. 4. Shoot! I was one issue away from repapering the den! While all of the above are good possibilities, the reality is that we have downsized our quarterly T.I.M.E. magazine as a result of 2011 budget cuts. While the cost of the larger, four-color format never exceeded the cost of the previous 8.5 x 11 two-color, bi-monthly format, our projected revenue for 2011 made it clear that additional cuts needed to be made. What you have in your hands is one of them. Not only is the format smaller, we have committed to holding each issue to fewer pages. Rest assured that there’s still enough reading material here to help you fall asleep at night. Somehow that doesn’t seem to be a very good reflection on the content of this magazine, but I could fall asleep reading my own biography, and I’m an only child so you know how riveted I would be by that. Anyway, you get my point.
behind the scenes at St. Luke’s. It’s like getting a sneak peek at the live-action version of our mission, vision and method statements. The words say a lot, but when the words inspire people into action, then you have something to get jumped up about. During this time of senior pastor transition, this publication is critical in telling the stories and giving the information that keeps us all connected. In this issue, you’ll see that we honor Dr. Kent Millard’s 45 years of ministry, learn more about the transition process, and start to make plans to celebrate and honor the Millards. In addition, there is information on an exciting new mission opportunity almost literally in our backyard, as well as updates on the ongoing work in Haiti. Lent and Easter information is contained here, and you’ll be “trilled” to know we have a new Flute Choir. In a church as large as St. Luke’s, it’s easy to lose some of the good qualities of a smaller church, where you know who takes the time to make casseroles for funeral lunches. The big job of this smaller publication remains the same: to show God’s work in action through the people of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, and inspire others to action as well. Happy reading,
Even in its smaller format, this publication still carries out its big job: communicating in a more in-depth way than announcements can the important work being done
Lori Crantford, EDIToR
st. luke’s identity We are an open
community of Christians gathering to seek, celebrate, live and share the love of God for all creation. st. luke’s vision We envision being transformed
by God and transforming
the world into a compassionate, just, inclusive, Christ-like community.
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100 W. 86th Street Indianapolis, IN 46260 TelephoNe: 317-846-3404 Fax: 317-844-1034 Web: www.stlukesumc.com edITorIal:
lori Crantford Sarah Nevin CIrCulaTIoN maNager: Sylvia Forbes deSIgN:
NexT T.I.m.e. deadlINe:
may 23 for July—September 2011
from the desk
APRIL—JUNE 2011
Friends: After I sent out my letter about retiring on June 0, 0, a member of our congregation asked me “What does the senior pastor at St. Luke’s actually do?” During this time of transition I thought it would be helpful for me to articulate what I see as the roles of a senior pastor at St. Luke’s which I have sought to fulfill over these past 8 years.
Visionary Spiritual Leader When I arrived at St. Luke’s in 99, people often asked me where I was going to lead the congregation. I told them that is the wrong question. The real question is where does God want to lead this congregation? Our role as pastors, staff and lay leaders is to discern together where we think God is leading, and then to put all our efforts and energy into fulfilling what we believe God calls us to do. God has led this congregation to be an “open community of Christians gathering to seek, celebrate, live and share the love of God for all creation.” We believe God’s vision for this congregation is that we would all be “transformed by God so God can use us to transform the world into a compassionate, just, inclusive and Christ-like community.” The senior pastor’s role is to always remind us who we are and where God is calling to go. To achieve this vision, we need to trust as if all depended on God, and to work as if it all depended on us. As Rev. David Williamson put it, “Without God we can’t, and without us God won’t.”
Inspiring Preacher, Teacher and Pastor The senior pastor in most large congregations preaches about 80% of the time or about 4 Sundays a year in the Sanctuary services. Associate pastors and visiting pastors preach about ten Sundays a year.
I was ordained as a United Methodist Pastor on Saturday, June , 966 in South Dakota by Bishop Edwin Garrison, who was originally from Indiana and who passed away a few years ago at the Franklin United Methodist home in Franklin, Indiana. When I retire, I will have served as a United Methodist preacher, teacher and pastor for 45 years. I thank God for every opportunity I have been given to serve God and God’s people. When I retire, I will have preached about 5,000 times in Sunday worship services, baptized about 4,000 persons, conducted about ,000 weddings, ,000 funeral services, taught countless classes, and provided spiritual counseling for more people than I can remember. I have been exceedingly blessed whenever I have had the opportunity to serve others in God’s name.
Pastor in Charge/Chief Executive Officer In the United Methodist Discipline, the senior pastor has the responsibility to be the “pastor in charge,” or in secular terms, the Chief Executive Officer of a congregation. At St. Luke’s, the senior pastor is officially the CEO of a non-profit 50(c) religious organization with an annual income and expenditures of $6 million and with responsibility for about 60 employees. The senior pastor is like the president of a university or the superintendent of a school board who are responsible for the effectiveness of the organization and accountable to a board of directors. At St. Luke’s, the senior pastor is accountable to the Governing Board for ensuring that the church is moving toward God’s vision for the church.
Community and National Leader When I became senior pastor, our lay leaders asked me if I would become more involved — —
together in ministry everyday in community activities and help St. Luke’s style of openness to all become known at a national level. I was eager to fulfill that request and have become actively involved in many community organizations, Annual Conference ministries, and have served on numerous national United Methodist boards and committees. After retirement, I will continue to serve as president of the Indianapolis Interfaith Hunger Initiative and will be available to speak to congregations on weekends about this important community ministry. I will also continue as president of a charter school board, and will teach a course on leadership in the Doctor of Ministry program at Garrett Evangelical Seminary next year. But mainly, I want to spend more time with my wife, Minnietta, and our family in retirement. While the senior pastor at St. Luke’s has many other roles and responsibilities, these are some roles our leaders have asked me to fulfill. Rev. Doug Anderson is a consultant who led a retreat for our Lead Team recently. He shared that when a church looks for a new leader, the church has to first decide where God is calling them to be in the next five-ten years, and then seek to find the leader with the spiritual and leadership gifts to lead them to that goal. Our leadership transition team has developed a congregational profile of our church, is discerning where God is leading, and is working with Bishop Coyner to discern who our next senior pastor might be. Please support them with your prayers every Friday at noon and with your best spiritual thinking. I love the people of St. Luke’s, I love the mission and vision of St. Luke’s, and I love the positive difference St. Luke’s makes in this community and around the world. But especially I love the God revealed in Jesus Christ who transformed my life and who is transforming the lives of people in our congregation, community and world. I will preach my final message as senior pastor at our Later@St. Luke’s 6pm service on Sunday, June 5, and my final message at The Garden services on Sunday, June . My final sermon in our Sanctuary services will be on Sunday, June 6, 0. The title of my message will be the same as the title of my first message at St. Luke’s on Sunday, October 0, 99: “For All That Has Been, Thanks; For All That Will Be, Yes!” I thank God for the opportunity to serve St. Luke’s for these past 8 years and know that the best years of St. Luke’s are ahead of us. Our good and gracious God has great plans in store for this congregation in the future, and I will be praying for the next senior pastor and this congregation as you move forward together. Grace and Peace, Kent Millard —4 —
n RETIREMENT SoUNDED WoNDERFUL to me in 1993. That is it did for
about two months, by which time I realized how much I missed the people of St. Luke’s Church. In the course of my 26 years there as pastor it had become my life. Nearly all of my friends and many other people I knew and admired were members there. However, the rubrics of Methodism, as well as tradition, required me to quietly disappear so my successor could find his place there as pastor. Then a great blessing came into my life in the form of Kent and Minnietta Millard. Kent was having none of that disappearance stuff. He reached out to me as a friend and made it clear to me that I was still part of St. Luke’s, that I was free to come and go as I pleased. He even had a picture painted
honoring kent millard
APRIL—JUNE 2011
The Servant Who Said Yes by Lori Crantford
When Kent Millard was years old, he and nearly 0 members of his family moved from Texas—where Kent was born and raised—to Faith, South Dakota. The first winter they lived in South Dakota was the worst winter that state had seen in 0 years. The snow was so significant that the government flew planes over the ranches in order to drop hay bales to feed cattle (let’s not even think about if there is a federally funded Manna for Cows program, not to be confused with there being “too much pork” in our legislation). Anyway, you get the idea. There was too much snow for ranchers or anyone to get around much. So young Kent found himself with days on end of being snowbound with his family and nothing much to do... except train a goat to pull a sled. “There I was, stuck in the house, and after a couple days it just seemed like a good idea,” Kent tells me. “So I got a sled, and some rope, and I hitched the goat up to the sled. And then I pulled him up the hill,” he says, laughing. “Now, the goat would run back down the hill, because that was toward the barn where his food was. No matter how hard I tried to get him to pull the sled up the hill, he never would, but he’d always pull it back down. So basically I trained a goat to pull a sled... one way.”
of me and placed it in the entryway of the church. He asked me to write down some of my sermons, which he then turned into a book. I can’t imagine a more secure personality. The sadness of leaving faced by many a long-serving pastor was no longer my fate. one of the finest, kindest, great-hearted men I know had arrived, and in the following years I have time and again been enriched in one way or another by Kent’s generous spirit. He became a friend and as such I watch Kent, nearly always cheerful and affirming of whoever might be in his presence, as he pursues the work of Jesus Christ, spreading encouragement and affirmation among the people he meets. Kent is a man of courage. He stands up for what he believes. His word is his bond. Sure, he’s an incurable world traveler, he has one of my traits—speaking at times before thinking—he bubbles over at times with enthusiasm, he sometimes comes down on the liberal side of issues as a thorn in the side of all of us conservative people, but this is a man who loves his people. I know, no one is irreplaceable. God will surely send us an admirable, loving new pastor. But even so, there’ll never be another Kent Millard. Soon he and Minnietta will find their new ministries together, but it’s important that they also not be allowed to disappear from St. Luke’s Church.
ToP: Kent at a
United Methodist U.S. Senator reception in Washington D.C. BoTToM: Kent Millard,
goat trainer ——Dr. Carver McGriff, SENIoR PASToR St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 1967-1993 —5 —
together in ministry everyday
SERvANT, cont’d from page 5
[SIDE NOTE TO WOULD-BE WRITERS: if you ever interview someone and they tell you a story about training a goat to pull a sled, lead with it. Just trust me.] Now, I won’t go so far as to compare a congregation to a goat, or Kent to a goat, but I will say that anyone who knows Kent Millard would not be surprised to learn that as a boy he decided to take on a goat and see where he could get him to go. The fact that he only trained him to go one way just shows that Kent’s powers of persuasion weren’t fully developed at the age of , but understanding that he thought it was a good idea to try says everything about the man he would become. Seems he always expected miracles. • • • • • Born in Hereford, Texas in 94, Kent is the second of four children of Hughes and Gertrude Millard. In 95, Kent’s grandfather bought a 000-acre ranch in South Dakota and moved his entire family there, including his wife, eight children, their seven spouses and twelve grandchildren. There were two houses on the ranch, and the entire family lived in those homes. After a few months, Kent, his older sister, Sheila, younger sister Judy and his parents moved into the town of Faith, about 0 miles from the ranch. They lived in a room at the back of a café where his parents worked. Kent’s job was chief dishwasher, and his pay was “all the donuts I wanted.” If that’s not foreshadowing of his ending up at St. Luke’s, I don’t know what bigger sign you’d want. Kent attended Faith High School, graduating as Co-Salutatorian in 959. While in high school, Kent played basketball, ran track and was the quarterback on the football team. He also attempted to play the trombone, but after taking beginner band for the second time, the teacher gave him advice something along the lines of “don’t quit your day job” and sent him back out to the football field.
ToP: College Days:
Minnietta and Kent far right side BoTToM: Kent speaking for Interfaith
Hunger Initiative’s Un-Lunch event at Monument Circle
Between his junior and senior year in high school, Kent attended Boys State in Aberdeen, SD where he learned a valuable lesson. “Boys State is all about learning the political system, and I really didn’t understand how it all worked,” Kent recalls. “The boys from the bigger cities immediately started campaigning and setting themselves up to be elected to important offices, and boys like me were soon left behind. I think I ended up being appointed the dog catcher or something. But what I remember most was a statement one of the speakers made: ‘Some of you weren’t elected, but it doesn’t mean you can’t make something of your life.’” Those words of inspiration may have been in the back of Kent’s mind when the president of Dakota Wesleyan University came to his parent’s
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APRIL—JUNE 2011
n Dr. Kent Millard has been a model senior pastor in our Indiana Conference.
He is the lead pastor of one of our largest churches, he also chairs the Conference Committee on Finance and Administration for Indiana, and he has been a key leader across the whole United Methodist Church. Kent and Minnietta’s lives are a witness of a faithful marriage and family, and they each offer their individual witness as uniquely creative individuals. On a personal level, Kent and Minnietta are friends whose support for me and my leadership as a bishop is unwavering. Even if we happen to disagree on any particular issue, Kent and Minnietta always provide personal and public support for the office of bishop, along with their friendship and caring for me and my family. My wife, Marsha, is a member at St. Luke’s (we bishops are not members of local churches), so I am with her in worship several times a year, and that allows me to see first-hand
honoring kent millard
the ministry of Kent. His messages, his joy for life, and his passion for the church to be inclusive are evident. Always inspiring, thoughtprovoking and challenging, Kent’s sermons are a masterpiece of good communication about God’s love and grace. One more example of Kent’s fine leadership must be named because it so much relates to the future of St. Luke’s Church. Kent and Carver McGriff provided a model for pastoral succession that is a lesson for all clergy, and it is also an indication of how the next transition will proceed. St. Luke’s will have a good transition after Kent’s retirement, because he will make it so! I pray that God will bless Kent and Minnietta with many years of good health, happy retirement, and continued zestful life. ——Bishop Michael Coyner, Indiana Conference, The United Methodist Church
“I thought being a minister would be boring—I wanted more excitement.” —Dr. Kent Millard
Minnietta and Kent show their dancing skills at the Rhapsody in You event
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together in ministry everyday
n WHEN KENT ARRIvED AT ST. LUKE’S IN oCToBER oF 1993, I doubt that either of us
dreamed that we would be at this point nearly 18 years later! Here was a leader new to St. Luke’s with an “old-timer” as part of the staff, and most new pastors would probably have wanted to form his/her own staff. However, Kent is deeply faith-filled, and when I came to him with what seemed like a “hair brained” idea to start a very different type of ministry off-site, he welcomed the idea with open arms, and said to me, “If this is a God thing, I want to be on God’s side.” He has been very supportive and encouraging of The Garden, both in its formation and as it has grown and changed, and I am extremely grateful to Kent for his openness, his encouragement and his willingness to step out and try new things at what could have been a tenuous time in his ministry here. That’s how he has led St. Luke’s for all these years: keenly attuned to God’s call and courageous enough to respond faithfully. He is a living example of the kind of life Jesus lived—welcoming all, coloring outside the lines, taking risks, and broadening our understanding of who God is and what God is like by his own life. I will miss him more that I can say, and am grateful for the years we’ve worked together. ——Linda McCoy, St. Luke’s ASSoCIATE PASToR AND PASToR, The Garden, St. Luke’s MEMBER SINCE 1969
SERvANT, cont’d from page
home for dinner one evening. “He asked me if I wanted to go to college, and I said yes I did—no one in my family had gone to college before. He said I should go to Dakota Wesleyan, so I did.” Or perhaps his inspiration came from elsewhere: it didn’t hurt that the summer before, Kent had met a young lady named Minnietta at summer camp, and she was also headed for Dakota Wesleyan. The president of Dakota Wesleyan probably left the Millard’s that night after dinner congratulating himself on his recruiting skills, when in reality Minnietta had laid all the groundwork for him. Joining Kent and Minnietta at Dakota Wesleyan was Don Messer, a boy who would become Kent’s lifelong friend. —8 —
Kent had met Don at Boys State, and then again at the same summer camp where he met Minnietta. This would be because Don and Minnietta were dating at the time. If you don’t know that story, then you haven’t been coming to church enough over the past 8 years. Kent didn’t think he wanted to be a pastor; he wanted something more exciting. But between his junior and senior years in college, “A minister called and asked if I would be a youth director of a small country church. I did it because I thought being a minister would be boring—I wanted more excitement,” Kent says. “That summer was to prove to God and to me that I did not want to be a minister.”
honoring kent millard
APRIL—JUNE 2011
n SooN AFTER KENT BECAME
the Senior Pastor at St. Luke’s, I joined his team as the Lay Leader and stayed for 14 years. It was a busy time as the congregation reassessed our mission and methods for the coming years. As we moved toward a building program and greater outreach, Kent’s leadership was very strong. When the first of several capital campaigns was under way, it was apparent that he was prepared. Every campaign needs a cheerleader, and Kent was every fundraiser’s dream. The building campaign and the increased outreach of the congregation became major tasks, and Kent’s leadership was there. Not only were we building facilities that would allow for growth in membership, but we were laying groundwork for becoming a larger presence in the Indianapolis and north side communities. Kent would listen to any idea and give it a hearing. one of his remarkable strengths is the ability
to bring different ideas to the table for discussion and new goals. Kent’s presence in the Indiana Conference and the larger Methodist activities brought many new opportunities for the congregation as we went on work projects, accepted leadership positions in the Conference and in local, national and international causes. Kent’s energy is boundless. The word “no” doesn’t seem to be in his vocabulary. Kent’s contribution to the Indianapolis community is amazing. Social issues were brought to the congregation regularly for discussion and action. Kent led us to care about and get involved with people across the United States and around the globe who became part of our St. Luke’s family in the process. He has accomplished all of these achievements while managing to keep his servant heart and love of St. Luke’s at the center of all that he did. He will be missed. ——Marilyn Burger, former St. Luke’s LAY LEADER, MEMBER SINCE 1977
ToP LEFT: Kent and Peyton Manning
So Kent showed up at the church... and the pastor went on vacation! “A parishioner tried to commit suicide the first week,” Kent remembers, “and the second week I took a youth group on an overnight camping trip when I was awakened in the middle of the night by highway patrolmen who told me two of my boys had stolen a boat and were in the middle of a lake. The next day I was exhausted and said‘OK, God, I get it!’ That’s when I decided to go into ministry. Both of the situations I had been in were resolved, not because of anything that I had really done, but because I realized that God does the heavy lifting.” After graduating from Dakota Wesleyan, Kent worked as a youth pastor in Spearfish, SD. “Our church provided volunteers for the Black Hills Passion Play (the story of the last week of Christ’s life).” Minnietta was one of King Herod’s scantily clothed dancing girls, and I was cast as a Roman soldier,” Kent remembers. “I killed Jesus three times a week.”
ToP RIGHT: It takes the support of a
team: Kent Millard (back), with current and former lay leaders Marilyn Burger (standing), Gary Walla & Jennifer Todd (top row) Jeff Peek, Julia Johnson, and Jim Wurster (bottom row) BoTToM LEFT: Kent as Elvis and Linda McCoy at St. Luke’s 50th anniversary bash BoTToM RIGHT: Early pastor days
—9 —
together in ministry everyday
Millard family, yesterday and today
n As I think back to my first meeting with Kent
Millard, in the lobby of Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre, I realize that I had no idea how central of a role he would play in my life over the next 18 years. Later that week, along with Marilyn Burger, Sharon and I stopped by his new house to welcome him and Minnietta on a journey that would see our church grow into a vibrant and welcoming community. And along the way, he presided over the confirmation of our children, the marriages of our oldest son and our daughter, the baptism of our grandson, and his presence at the deathbed of my father. Our family had opportunities to be beside Kent and learn from him in a variety of life experiences; from the Native American reservations in South Dakota to supporting his unwavering leadership in interfaith and multicultural dialogue and concern for the hungry of our city and the world. In between all of that, he encouraged and then invited me to be part of his dynamic staff as we were guiding this treasure we call St. Luke’s through the years of transition and growth, the biggest in its nearly 60-year history. Kent never said no to anyone, a trait that would often get him in trouble, but would also endear him to a growing congregation. His willingness to be part of everything, whether as the “rear end of the donkey” or to encourage — —
Minnietta to make her appearance with him as a tribute to “Dancing with the Stars” was always an encouragement and a lesson to others to see our church as an important place of community, a place where we could come together with the thousands who joined in worship every Sunday, who were encouraged to celebrate and share their talents and gifts with others near and far. Kent has always had an uncanny way of talking directly to each individual from the pulpit, but he also has the wonderful trait of knowing how to talk directly to you in the midst of all that is going on in the world, sharing in your joys and praying for your concerns. That will be missed as he moves on to the next phase of his life, but his legacy at St. Luke’s will remain visible for years to come as people gather in the beautiful Sanctuary space, revel in the musical offerings and spend quiet moments in the prayer chapel. His dedication to and love for the people of St. Luke’s will live as a testament to the power of humble servant leadership. We will miss Kent Millard but know that his life with Minnietta and his wonderful family of children and grandchildren will continue to enrich and bless him and as he has blessed us. ——Bob Zehr, Governing Board member and former St. Luke’s Director of Development, St. Luke’s member since 1981
honoring kent millard
APRIL—JUNE 2011
SERvANT, cont’d from page 9
[Second note to would-be writers: “I killed Jesus three times a week” is also an excellent lead, but in the end it lost out to “trained a goat to pull a sled.”] Minnietta and Kent were married on April , 96, and graduated a couple of months later. They were both accepted to Boston University School of Theology. While there, Kent pursued his Divinity degree and served as a student pastor at several churches, while Minnietta worked on her Masters in Christian Education and worked as a Director of Christian Education in a local church. Kent’s good friend Don Messer was also enrolled there, and while Minnietta married only one of them she wound up fixing dinner every night for both of them. It was during this time that a central issue of Kent’s life came into focus. While in seminary, Kent had the opportunity to march twice with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.—first in Selma for voting rights, second in Boston for open housing rights. Kent’s recounting of those experiences is intense and had a significant impact on him as a person and a minister. When Dr. King came to Boston, his organizers contacted the seminary and asked if any of the students would be willing to serve as bodyguards for Dr. King. Kent said yes, and soon found himself standing next to this inspirational and revolutionary leader. “He took the time to speak to me, to ask about my life,” Kent says, still shaking his head all these years later as he marvels at the encounter. “He asked me, ‘What are you going to do in your ministry for civil rights?’ Civil rights became a central theme of my ministry after that day.” After graduating from Boston, the Millards headed for the hallowed halls of Cambridge University in Cambridge, England. Kent was working on his doctorate in New Testament studies, while Minnietta taught math and religion in public school. After a year, they
returned to the Boston area. Kent continued his doctoral work and was a student pastor, while Minnietta took a position at a church as Director of Christian Education. “The plan was that I would get my Ph.D., go into teaching, then likely end up president of a university. But as I got further into the degree, I realized that I had fallen in love with the church and wanted to preach, not teach.” He was asked by the Bishop to be the pastor of a 600-member church in New Bedford, MA, situated in the midst of some significant race relations activity. Even though it seemed like a perfect opportunity for Kent, he and Minnietta decided it was time to return home to South Dakota. Kent began with two
“I realized that I had fallen in love with the church and wanted to preach, not teach.” —DR. KENT MILLARD small churches, one in Flandreau, SD, and another in Egan, SD, where they worked with a Native American Indian school of 500 kids who were all wards of the state, starting an inter-denominational chaplaincy program there. By 9, Kent had been appointed associate pastor at Canyon Lake UMC in Rapid City, SD. His previous race relations work during the Civil Rights movement would become useful as the American Indian Movement (AIM) came to South Dakota in February 1973 to demonstrate. The Wounded Knee takeover began when the town of Wounded Knee, South Dakota was seized
Kent trading his robes for a drill on a work trip — —
honoring kent millard
together in ministry everyday
Retirement Events
SERMoNS, SEND-oFFS & CELEBRATIoNS Join us as we celebrate the ministry of Dr. Kent Millard. Events are open to all. Watch for more details in upcoming issues of the Communion Monthly and on our website.
Dr. MillarD Preaching n
(116th & Hazel Dell Parkway) TICKETS:
$50/person, $750 reserved table of 10—on sale 5/1/11
The garden
Sunday, June 12, 8:15, 9:15 & 10:15 Beef & Boards Dinner Theater /The Mansion at oak Hill n
a celebration & Benefit event
Tuesday, June 14, 6:30PM & Wednesday, June 15, 6:30PM The Mansion at oak Hill
later@St. luke’s
Sunday, June 5, 6PM Robertson Chapel n
roast!
St. luke’s
Sunday, June 26 8:00, 9:30 and 11:15AM Dr. Kent Millard will preach his final sermon as Senior Pastor of St. Luke’s at all three morning worship services. St. Luke’s member Senator Richard Lugar will be our special guest, and the St. Luke’s Orchestra will play. A love offering for the Millards will be received.
There is no better way to pay respects to an esteemed faith and community leader than to put him on a stage and roast him good! Join us for dinner and an evening of good-natured fun. Tickets are anticipated to go quickly, so don’t wait to purchase yours. Per the Millards’ request, proceeds from this event will be divided among The Kent and Minnietta Millard Scholarship Fund at Dakota Wesleyan University; St. Luke’s United Methodist Church for the Music Program and the Spiritual Life Center; and Barnes United Methodist Church for their Community Outreach Program.
Pancreatic cancer action network Purple Stride Indianapolis 2011 Saturday, June 25 White River State Park 5k run and family friendly walk. Register online at pancan.kintera.org. The St. Luke’s community is invited to participate in this community activity along with Minnietta and Kent Millard.
celebration of Ministry Sunday, June 26, 3PM Everyone is welcome to attend the Retirement Celebration and Reception, which will feature special music and include other Indianapolis faith and community leaders, as well as current and previous St. Luke’s clergy and out-of-town guests.
SERvANT, cont’d from page
Drop off your letters of appreciation for the Millards in the main office beginning May 1.
by followers of AIM. The occupiers controlled the town for days while the United States Marshals Service and other law enforcement agencies cordoned off the town. “The church was in the midst,” says Kent, “trying to bring it to a peaceful resolution, working through the National Council of Churches to diffuse the situation.” Kent was one of several pastors acting as neutral observers in what was a highly charged— and armed—situation. On one occasion he delivered messages between the two sides while shots were being fired around him. Once, when sent on what would appear to be a routine errand to obtain medical supplies, Kent
— —
was stopped by the FBI, watched as he loaded his car, followed home, tailed for several days, and finally had a face-to-face encounter with an FBI agent who informed Kent that they had their eye on him. (In 00, when Kent and I were serving on the programming committee organizing the Dalai Lama event here in Indianapolis, we were informed that all of us would have to undergo a background check by the State Department. I jokingly informed the group that it had been nice working with them, but I wouldn’t survive the background check. Kent laughed, and then got a funny look on his face and said, “You know, I might not survive a background check either.” Only he wasn’t kidding. He still wonders what the
APRIL—JUNE 2011
FBI files might say about him. I advised him to just let it remain a great mystery.) After serving as associate pastor for two years at Canyon Lake, Kent was appointed senior pastor at the age of . It was the fastest-growing church in the state, and Kent served there seven years until he was asked by the Bishop
n 1993: ovERCRoWDED HALLS, BUSTLING EvENTS, space at a
premium, choir spilling out onto the pew section of what is now known as Robertson Chapel. Associate clergy were at the helm as we had an interim period after Dr. McGriff retired. The word comes down that a minister from South Dakota (I’m not sure I knew how to spell Dakota 18 years ago) was coming our way. Little did we know what the West would send our way. It all seems
LEFT: Kent inscribing
a beam for the new construction during the Sanctuary’s “Expect a Miracle” campaign RIGHT: (l to r) Kent,
Senator Richard Lugar, and Dr. Carver McGriff
to serve as District Superintendent, “and you don’t get to say no,” Kent reports. He was assigned to start a Native American Indian church in Aberdeen, SD. From 98-88 he served as senior pastor at First UMC in Mitchell, SD, a church with 00 members. In 988 he began serving as senior pastor at First UMC in Sioux Falls, SD, the largest United Methodist Church in the Dakotas with 00 members. In 99 he was nominated to become Bishop, but he withdrew his name after several rounds of voting in order to allow a female pastor to assume the post. During that nomination process, he met Woodie White, who was Indiana’s Bishop at the time. “I remember he asked me a rather odd question: ‘How bad do you want this?’ I replied ‘It’s not that I want to be Bishop... I just want to serve wherever God wants me.” It’s possible that one year later in 99, Bishop Woodie White recalled a South Dakota pastor
like a whirlwind from the first sermon in october, to early morning vision meetings, to bulldozers and “Expecting a Miracle.” Kent Millard rode into our lives and hearts and asked us to believe in a God of miracles, possibilities and dreams. Maybe, most of all, he asked us to believe in ourselves and the spark of the divine in each of us. We were encouraged to see the dreams we are given as God’s call. I am grateful to have been part of the whirlwind. Because a man of faith, miracles, possibilities and trust crossed my path here at “the ranch,” my life has been enriched, challenged and channeled to a higher vision. It is with a sense of gratitude that I reflect on these years that I have been in partnership with Kent in this community. We will not replace what he has given us during this season at St. Luke’s, but we must not lose the energy, passion and vision that have consistently moved us forward into the unknown. May I never lose the phrase “just believe it is possible” from my own vocabulary. I believe that is what Kent would want for us all in this next chapter of his life and ours. 2011: community voice, outreach focused, inclusive, interfaith... may we continue what the minister from the West began. ——Julia Johnson, ExECUTIvE DIRECToR oF MINISTRIES, St. Luke’s MEMBER SINCE 1988 — —
together in ministry everyday
SERvANT, cont’d from page
who said he just wanted to serve wherever God wanted What are some of your favorite memories? him, and so put Kent Millard to the test by asking him to “The first has to be the new building,” Kent tells me. “We serve at a little church called St. Luke’s in Indianapolis, had promised the congregation in 99 that we would have Indiana. In an interview I did with Kent in 00 for the Easter in 999 in the new sanctuary... but it wasn’t quite 50th anniversary of St. Luke’s, Kent ready! We asked Dave Brandt, who was shared the story of his journey to St. in charge of the construction, if we Luke’s. “Minnietta and I had come to could clean it up and have Easter, and he Indianapolis to meet with Bishop White said sure. People from the congregation and some members of our Staff Parish came after the workers left on Friday to Committee. I was absolutely torn over clean the Sanctuary. We rented a couple what God might be calling us to do. thousand white chairs and an electric On the one hand, I was happy in Sioux organ. It was a truly special morning, Falls and excited about the next chapter our first worship service in our yet-toin the life of that congregation. On the be completed Sanctuary.” other hand, I wanted to be open to do whatever God called me to do and to go Kent next mentioned mission projects, wherever I was sent... I had about three specifically the Haitian Academy and hours to make a decision... I went for the St. Luke’s Clinic there. “It’s amazing a walk, knelt down and started praying to hear these Haitian students who said the prayer that Jesus prayed: ‘Father, let if you hadn’t built this clinic, we could this cup pass from me yet not my will never have realized our dream. Now they but thine be done.’ I prayed that prayer are doctors serving in Haiti, making a Kent Millard’s current driver’s over and over and then a song from real difference where it is truly needed, license photo “Jesus Christ Superstar” came to me. In in their own country.” Africa University the Garden of Gethsemane scene, Jesus prays: ‘God your is another project that is near to Kent’s heart. “St. Luke’s will is hard but you hold every card. Take me now before raised $00,000, and together with our Annual Conference I change my mind.’ After praying that prayer a feeling of we built two dorms there. A room was named for St. Luke’s peace came over me and I asked God to ‘take me now as well as for each of St. Luke’s four senior pastors.” The before I change my mind.’ I told Minnietta that we would University educates approximately 500 students reprelet God take us to St. Luke’s, and I have felt since that mo- senting 5 African nations. ment that God led us to serve in this congregation.” Rounding out his list: Celebration of Hope and race When we sat down in February 0 for this interview, I relations work, as well as the interfaith dialogue that is asked Kent these five questions about his time at St. Luke’s: possible at St. Luke’s. “I am also grateful for my Wednesday morning book study—I enjoy teaching it, and it makes What has been your biggest surprise? me read things I wouldn’t otherwise read, which helps me “That people kept coming to church after I arrived!” he grow—and for fun times and laughter with our staff.” said in all seriousness. “It was intimidating. A person came Believe it or not, a lot of funny things happen at a church, up to me after I had preached on my first Sunday and said but what happens at church staff retreats stays at church “Who do you think you are that you can follow Carver staff retreats. McGriff?” I replied ‘Carver is a great pastor I admire him immensely, and I will simply try to do my best .’ People on Do you have any regrets? the Staff Parish Committee had told me that they knew some “I regret not spending as much time with Minnietta people would leave, but for me not to worry about it. The and my family,” Kent shares. “I can get so passionate and fact that very few people left was a huge surprise to me.” enthusiastic about the church that I can forget about my —4 —
honoring kent millard
APRIL—JUNE 2011
n EIGHTEEN YEARS AGo, I had the awesome
responsibility of making a new pastoral appointment to St. Luke’s, the largest United Methodist congregation in the North Central Jurisdiction. When I made the decision to invite Rev. Kent Millard to become the new pastor of St. Luke’s, no one on the Pastor Parish Relations Committee knew him! Perhaps, neither did any one else at St. Luke’s! Kent was as stunned as the Committee was uncertain. More so I suspect. I actually knew Kent better than even he was aware. I had observed him in many denominational settings over the years, and I was more than impressed with his considerable gifts, compassion, and obvious love of the church and effectiveness in ministry.
quick to welcome the stranger, assist those in need, champion the cause of the oppressed and marginalized, and challenge injustice. He does all these things with an infectious smile and persuasiveness, winning others to these causes in the process.
I’m the luckiest pastor in the world to serve St. Luke’s . . . There is more faith, talent, commitment and generosity here than in any church I’ve been a part of. ” —DR. KENT MILLARD
Now after 18 years of exceptional ministry as Senior Pastor of St. Luke’s, still the largest congregation in the Jurisdiction, having experienced continued growth under his superb leadership, he brings to an end a stellar ministry recognized across the entire United Methodist Church.
Clearly one of the best decisions I made while serving as Bishop in Indiana was to invite Kent Millard to become pastor of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. At no time during those years did I ever regret that decision; indeed, he surpassed all my expectations!
Kent has a combination of qualities that have endeared him to those in his congregation, the greater Indianapolis community and beyond, as well as throughout United Methodism. He is genuinely relational, collegial and caring. He is
——BISHoP Woodie W. White, BISHoP IN RESIDENCE, Candler School of Theology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
family. I should have delegated more, or not taken on so much. My favorite scripture passage is Mark 0:5-45 where Jesus says ‘Whoever will be great among you will be your servant...’ When that’s the theme of your life, then that’s probably why I say yes so much.” What is your future? “We’ll be staying in Indianapolis—it’s where our children and grandchildren are, it’s become our home these last 8 years. I’ll be spending more time with Minnietta and our family. Minnietta and I, along with Don and Bonnie Messer, will be taking a cruise in the Mediterranean in September to celebrate her healing and my 0th
birthday. I’ll be slowing down some, but also staying active with the Interfaith Hunger Initiative, involved with a charter school board, and teaching a course at Garrett Evangelical Seminary next year.” When I asked him if he had anything on his bucket list, he replied with a grin, “I’d still like to jump out of an airplane! And I might write a book about the funny things that happen in church.” Uh oh. What is St. Luke’s future? Without hesitation, Kent responds, “The future of St. Luke’s is exceedingly bright because it has a God-given mission to be an open community, welcoming everyone. More —5 —
honoring kent millard SERvANT, cont’d from page
and more people are hungry for an open community. People come up to me and say ‘This is the church we’ve been looking for all our lives!’ St. Luke’s is a non-judgmental, non-self righteous, servant community of faith. And God will bring a new senior pastor,” he continues, “who will help the leaders discern God’s direction for the church... and I hope everyone will stay on for the great ride ahead.” It’s been quite a ride for Kent Millard during the 45 years of his ministry. At times, it was probably as challenging as training a goat to pull a sled, but at others, as exhilarating as jumping out of an airplane. St. Luke’s has been blessed by this servant who said yes, and he feels the same in return. The words he used to close out our interview in 00 resonate even more deeply today:
together in ministry everyday
Frequently Asked Q by Sara Cobb and Jennifer Todd, Leadership Transition Team In early February, the St. Luke’s Leadership Transition Team, appointed by the Governing Board to work closely with Bishop Coyner to identify a senior pastor to succeed Kent Millard, provided an update to the congregation and made available a special link on the St. Luke’s website for questions and suggestions. Since that time, we have received many caring, thoughtful inquiries. We thought you might be interested in knowing some of the questions being asked, and our responses to them. As other questions arise, we would be delighted to respond as best we can.
1. What characteristics are we looking for in
a senior pastor?
“I want people to know how much I love this congregation. Sometimes I have to keep my composure on Sunday mornings when I sit up front and look at the congregation and think ‘I love these people!’ Longevity deepens affection, and I grow more in love with the congregation, its mission and vision every year. I’m the luckiest pastor in the world to serve St. Luke’s... there’s an ambiance of ‘with God anything is possible,’ that we can do anything we set our minds to. There is more faith, talent, commitment and generosity here than in any church I’ve been a part of.” n
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We have identified a long list of characteristic of the new senior pastor. When we reviewed the list with a couple of church leaders, they asked, “And where is the requirement that the new senior pastor walk on water?” From that comment, we knew we needed to prioritize our long list. We have done so and are looking hard at these five criteria: theologically aligned to St. Luke’s; visionary, strong preaching skills; demonstrated strength in leadership development; and a good fundraiser.
2. How did you get the list of names of people
you are reviewing?
We received names from Bishop Mike Coyner, a number of other state and national United Methodist and religious leaders, and also have had access to the list of the 100 largest United Methodist churches in the U.S. Finally, we were able to obtain a database with the fastest growing United Methodist churches in the country. We have been reviewing sermons and web sites for hundreds of these churches.
transitions
APRIL—JUNE 2011
Questions 3. Did you look at anyone from Indiana? Yes, we looked at several United Methodist pastors from Indiana.
4. Have you received any suggestions or comments
from members of the congregation through the St. Luke’s web site? A dozen or so folks have offered comments and suggestions on the web site. others have contacted us in church, on our e-mail or by phone. We are deeply appreciative of the thoughtful comments and suggestions. What is clear to us is that St. Luke’s is filled with people who dearly love the church.
5. I have a name I would like for you to consider.
How do I go about getting that to you?
You can go on the St. Luke’s website and click on the link to send an e-mail. It’s that easy. Here is the link: http:// www.stlukesumc.com/about/governing-structure/. Then, scroll all the way down to the bottom of the page and click on “form.”
6. When do you expect the new senior pastor to be
appointed?
9. What plans are being made for preaching
responsibilities during an interim period?
Dr. Linda McCoy has been selected by the Governing Board to serve as the Interim Senior Pastor of St. Luke’s during the interim period (see article, page 18). The current clergy staff are busy preparing an exciting, engaging series of Sunday services during the interim period. They believe that the interim period can be a time of unparalleled spiritual growth, excitement, and anticipation.
10. With the tight finances of the church, how will you be
able to offer a competitive salary?
We are working closely with Jeff Peek, Chair of the Finance Committee, as well as Bishop Coyner and his staff to survey comparable salaries nationally to be sure we are competitive.
11. How involved has the Bishop been in this process? How involved will he be in the coming months? Bishop Mike Coyner and District Superintendent Bert Kite have been integrally involved in the process thus far and will continue to do so in the next several weeks and months. We are fortunate to have the high quality and competent leadership demonstrated by Bishop Coyner and District Superintendent Kite.
We expect the new senior pastor to be appointed soon. While we are anxious to have the new pastor named, we also want to take the time to let the process unfold and allow God’s will to be laid out.
clergy?
7. When do you expect the new senior pastor will begin work here?
A New Pastor Welcome Team is being formed now to organize and plan events for the new pastor. The team will welcome any and all ideas and suggestions!
We hope the new pastor will begin work here in the fall.
8. Will the new person embrace the mission statement of St. Luke’s? It is our expectation that the new person will fully embrace the mission statement of St. Luke’s. We are being prayerful and diligent in our efforts to keep the criteria identified in number one above at the forefront of our thoughts.
12. What plans are being made to welcome the new
13. How can we help? • Call or e-mail with any concerns, questions, comments, etc. • Pray—every Friday at noon and as much time as you can in between Fridays at noon.
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transitions
together in ministry everyday
Interim Pastor Chosen by Jennifer Todd and Lori Crantford
Dr. Linda McCoy
The St. Luke’s Governing Board, Staff Parish Relations Committee, and Leadership are pleased that Dr. Linda McCoy has agreed enthusiastically to serve St. Luke’s as Interim Senior Pastor starting July , 0 and continuing until a new Senior Pastor is appointed and arrives at St. Luke’s. Her appointment was approved in March by Bishop Mike Coyner and by the Indiana Conference Cabinet. Dr. McCoy became part of the St. Luke’s clergy team as a student pastor in January 98, and began her full-time ministry as an associate pastor in January 985. In 994, while completing her doctorate, Linda had a dream which led to the formation of an off-site satellite ministry aimed at reaching those who had not been part of a church, or who had been turned out or turned off by their prior church experience. Since The Garden’s initial worship service, it has grown and thrived, beginning at Beef and Boards with 0 in attendance on the first Sunday in one service, to nearly 00 in attendance in the current four services offered at two sites. Linda has served as Lead Pastor of The Garden since its inception 5 years ago and will continue in that role during the interim period. Linda is uniquely qualified to lead St. Luke’s during the interim period, having a long-term working relationship with the leadership team of St. Luke’s and a deeply-rooted love of St. Luke’s and an understanding of what makes it such a special place. Linda has already begun working closely with the Executive Team—Julia Johnson (Executive Director of Ministries) and David Williamson (Executive Pastor)—as well as the Lead Team (consisting of clergy and
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program directors), to plan worship and events during the interim period. “I’m honored and humbled to be asked to serve St. Luke’s during this important transition period,” says Linda. “With lots of prayer and support, we will continue to move forward and be the church God calls us to be. I ask both the St. Luke’s congregation and the Gardeners at our two sites to walk alongside us as we grieve Kent’s leaving, begin to invest our time, energy and resources in new ventures while continuing to be true to St. Luke’s legacy, and prepare to welcome the new leader with open hearts.” Linda is the author of three books and numerous articles, and has seen The Garden featured in the writings of several other authors. In addition to her pastoral duties at The Garden, Linda helps other churches start new, non-traditional worship experiences to reach new populations, as well as leading workshops for various national consulting groups. She received the Harry Denman Award for Evangelism from the South Indiana Conference of the United Methodist Church, and in 00 was named a Distinguished Alumni of Christian Theological Seminary. Linda was also named one of the “Most Influential Women” in Indianapolis in 2008 by Indianapolis Business Journal. Prior to entering the ministry, Linda taught junior high school French. A native Hoosier, Linda is married to her high school sweetheart, Mike, and they have a daughter, Erin, son-in-law, Tim, and a granddaughter, Maddie. We would like to congratulate Linda on this interim appointment. We believe that this appointment will be the largest church in the United States that a United Methodist woman clergy has been appointed to lead. n
capital campaign
APRIL—JUNE 2011
Trust god No matter What Put all your trust in the Lord... and he will smooth your path... and honor the Lord with your wealth. CAPITAL CAMPAIGN 2011 —PROvERBS 3
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN 2011
tr ust tr ust GOD GOD
Before former senior pastor Dr. Carver McGriff retired in 99, St. Luke’s had a capital campaign to eliminate the indebtedness on the facilities expansions during his ministry here. It was a wise thing to do. The church is now faced with a similar situation. St. Luke’s has expanded facilities and ministries over the past 18 years and is now reaching about twice as many people in worship, education, fellowship and service than before. However, we also have incurred indebtedness in the process.
no matter what
no matter what
Our current indebtedness stands at nearly $4 million. While there are sufficient capital gifts on hand to pay the mortgage through the end of 0, additional gifts are needed for mortgage payments beginning in 0 or we may have to reduce staff and programming to make those mortgage payments. The St. Luke’s Governing Board has authorized a Trust God No Matter What capital campaign to generate $4 million in five-year pledges to make our monthly mortgage payments, and hopefully to become a debt-free congregation by 05. The debt that was eliminated before Dr. Millard came in 99 enabled the leaders of St. Luke’s to envision what God was calling the church to do next in terms of expanding its strong servant ministries throughout the community and world, and in expanding the facilities to meet the spiritual needs of a growing congregation. Doing the same would leave the next senior pastor and our leaders with a financially strong congregation so that the ministries of St. Luke’s would continue to serve the spiritual and personal needs of thousands of people in our community and beyond. Our goal is to raise $4 million by Easter Sunday, April 4. Commitment cards are available online at www.stlukesumc.com/getinvolved/giving/ capitalcampaign. Please prayerfully consider what you can do to play a role in ensuring that the mission and vision of your church will thrive for years to come. If you would like to discuss your gift with someone, contact Julia Johnson at -846-404 x5. n
ToP To BoTToM: Worshipping in St. Luke’s
2nd Sanctuary, now Robertson Chapel, and in the 1st Sanctuary, now, Fellowshp Hall —9 —
together in ministry everyday
Dreaming the Possible Dream by Lynda McQuiston and Shelly Sutton
Courage, bravery and valor are qualities we have long associated with our heroes. Romiyo Myah and Gu Gu oo are two young heroes to a local community with which you may not yet be acquainted. Romiyo and Gu Gu are leaders, trendsetters and role models for the Burmese refugee families who have relocated in the Nora area during the past five years. on May 25, 2011, as a result of their sheer indomitable will, these two young men, who knew only their ABC’s when they arrived in Indianapolis four and a half years ago, will be the first of the Nora area refugees to graduate from high school. Their selflessness is striking. As they order their caps and gowns and anticipate grasping their diplomas, they speak not of their own accomplishments but of assisting others in earning their high school diplomas and then college degrees. Their graciousness is also apparent, as they insist that their teachers, families, and community and church volunteers are the reason they
come to the United States from one of nine refugee camps in Thailand. They have been granted refugee status by the U.S. and a one-time allotment to start a new life here. Two groups help the refugees relocate to Indianapolis—Exodus, and Catholic Charities. These groups, however, are able to provide ongoing assistance for only a few months. In a trip that takes just under 36 hours, refugees fortunate enough to relocate here travel over 8,500 miles from the camps to their new homes in a very unfamiliar world. For Romiyo, Gu Gu and the other Karen and Karenni refugees, far more overwhelming than the physical journey is the cultural chasm they encounter in America. In the refugee camps, the United Nations provides rice, beans, fish, chicken and wood for cooking on open fires on a monthly basis for free, and individual families grow most of the rest of their food. Electricity exists only in a few communal areas, so learning to use a refrigerator, stove, microwave, television, computer and cell phone each
have achieved this first of many parts of their American Dream. Ultimately, both Romiyo and Gu Gu intend to enter professions where they are able to help others, as they believe their calling is to give back far more than they have been given.
present a new challenge. Even navigating a grocery store is overwhelming since such a store is a totally new experience. Although almost all of the fathers of these refugee families have found work, as have many of the mothers, most still struggle to make ends meet.
Karen and Karenni families, ethnic groups forced out of Burma (often referred to as Myanmar) by military regimes,
La Erh and Shar Say, both freshmen, are two of the younger Karen students who understand the message that
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community ministries
APRIL—JUNE 2011
LEFT To RIGHT:
Romiyo and Gu Gu are attempting to teach by example, as they maintain Honor Roll status, and Shar Say a 4.0 GPA. La Erh envisions a future working with refugees globally through the United Nations, and Shar Say plans to become one of the first female Karen refugees in America to become a pediatrician. While these dreams are attainable, they and the other families need the assistance of the St. Luke’s community. Do you have a passion to help families who are doing everything they can to help themselves? The following area programs need volunteers, and if you can read, you are qualified! At First Baptist Church, each Monday and Tuesday from 6:15-7:15PM, students from kindergarten through adulthood meet in age groups and work on improving their English skills. During the summer, First Baptist will offer morning classes. If afternoons are better for you, Faith Missionary Church, in conjunction with Nora Elementary, offers homework tutoring to the Nora Elemen-
tary children from 3:15-5PM Monday-Thursday in agegroup settings. or if you prefer to volunteer on your own schedule, be a mentor. North Central is creating a NewComers class to help those aged 17-23 obtain their high school diploma or GED in a fast-track program. They need mentors to encourage the NewComer students to excel in their studies. The time commitment is of your choosing— volunteer a couple of hours a month or a couple of hours a week.
Nora Elementary students participate in an afterschool tutoring program at Faith Missionary Church Nora student works on her homework in the after school program North Central students Gu Gu oo, Shar Say, Romiyo Myah and La Erh Nora 2nd grader works on homework in the after school program Barry Wood and Lynda McQuiston coach in a soccer league where many of children continue playing a game learned in refugee camps. Pictured with the coaches are San San Yoke, La Erh, Kway Thay Sue, Romiyo Myah, and Rubi Myah Young students work on their language and vocabulary skills in an evening program at First Baptist Church
Please consider assisting Romiyo, Gu Gu, La Erh and Shar Say in their mission of inspiring others by volunteering for this mission; you will not find a more grateful audience nor a more gratifying experience. To volunteer or for more information about volunteer opportunities, contact Cathy Kennedy at JayCathy@aol.com or 317- 576-0341. n
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world missions
together in ministry everyday
Haiti Medical Team Brings New Hope by Kay Walla
The Haiti I saw in January, while traveling with a ninemember Medical Team from St. Luke’s, was much like Haiti prior to the earthquake. The gracious and patient Haitian people have moved away from the grief of the crisis and on with life as usual, a bare subsistence. We saw evidence of progress. New highway surfaces have been built. Roadsides once littered with debris have been
We worked with Rescue 24, a team established after the earthquake by the North Carolina Baptist Men’s’ Ministry. Three of the recent graduate doctors from the Haitian Academy have been hired to lead the medical missions. our team carried 18 duffle bags of medicine, thanks to St. Luke’s and the Timmy Foundation. All medicine was given free of charge. We carried 1200 pair of reading glasses. Gary Walla and Jan Lautzenheiser helped people select a pair and watched the smile appear when they got the right ones. At each clinic, we were greeted with a crowd of families silently awaiting our arrival. one family left their home in the mountains at midnight to walk to where we were. Each clinic began with introductions and a prayer and education. Each person was seen by a nurse (Karen Lukovic, Joanna Edwards or Judy Laning), a doctor (Dick Lauzenheiser, Pete D’Amour or Bill Whitson), given prescriptions and a bar of soap. The smiles on their faces, their brief respite from pain, rewarded us with joy.
Bonds of fellowship were formed. The crowd broke out in smiles when Dr. Pete greeted them in French. All of us were near tears when Dr. Dick Joanna Edwards, Karen Lukovic, Dick Lautzenheiser, kneeled on the ground and injected the knees Jan Lautzenheiser, Kay Walla, Gary Walla, Judy Laning, of a 12-year-old boy, knowing that if he were in Bill Whitson, Pete D’Amour the U.S. his suffering from this disease could be cleaned up. Some people who were stranded in tents are stopped. When Jan Lautzenheiser cuddled a baby at the now in shelters. A new electric plant and a business park orphanage, we all wished we could bring one home to a are being built. Business people from around the world better life. When Dr. Bill examined an entire family living recently met to consider new ventures there. An oil refin- with scabies, we wished for the comforts of hot showers, ery will be built, which promises to hire 3500 workers. A antibiotics and a better life for them. garment factory will be built up north. The cholera epiWe carried health, caring and renewed hope to our Haidemic is under control. tian friends on this journey of life with us. But we received The medical team from St. Luke’s brought new hope with more than we gave. Haiti knows St. Luke’s cares and that medical care and friendship to 1,333 Haitians. We set up we will return. Thanks for your ongoing support. See the mobile clinics in nine remote sites, including two tent cit- hhHaiti.com website for the full story. n ies, an orphanage, a mountain top site and five villages. — —
music ministries
APRIL—JUNE 2011
Flute Choir Enriches Music Offerings at St. Luke’s by Jenny Hawke
In case you haven’t noticed, there’s a new choir making seasonal music at St. Luke’s. The musicians in this group boast a set of pipes that are truly silver—and not just metaphorically. With two Advent seasons under their belts, the St. Luke’s Flute Choir carries on a tradition of fluteonly ensembles that dates back to the time of J.S. Bach, and probably earlier. “Most people don’t realize that the flute choir is a standard tradition in music,” said Carol Dennis, the group’s director. For the past four years, Carol has played in the St. Luke’s Orchestra and is a soloist at worship services and Music Department-sponsored concerts. A graduate of the Eastman School of Music, she also plays the viola. She has played both instruments for several orchestras and ensembles in town, including the Philharmonic Orchestra of Indianapolis. But the flute has always been her real passion, and, upon her retirement, she “hit it with a vengeance.” Playing at St. Luke’s, Carol has demonstrated her artistry and skill on several different instruments from the flute family. Similar to the saxophone, flutes come in different “sizes,” including the piccolo, the more familiar “C flute” and the lower-pitched alto, bass, contrabass and double contrabass flutes. Altogether, this collection of flutes covers about a six-octave range, just two octaves short of a standard piano. In 009, Carol proposed the idea of a flute choir to Mark Squire, Director of Music Ministries. “I was delighted for another playing opportunity to be offered, and a flute choir seemed like a perfect fit for our holiday efforts” he said, “Carol’s enthusiasm is contagious, and I also have great respect for her musicianship, so I knew whatever she pursued, she would make a success.”
For their debut performance, about flutists played between services one Sunday in December 009. When Carol started recruiting flute players last fall, more than 0 players contacted her. “Nearly everyone who played the year before signed up, and they had called their friends who played,” she said. The range of the musicians’ experience has been wide and includes high school students, members of the Chancel Choir, music teachers and flutists from the Indianapolis Wind Symphony. And not everyone needs an instrument—Carol routinely loans out flutes from her personal collection. The ensemble practiced for several weeks last fall and provided the music at Sanctuary services on December . They also played in the Narthex between services, preparing about 45 minutes of music. The result has been a wonderful addition to the Sunday worship experience. It also has given the flutists another outlet for sharing their music with others. “It excites me because of the level of the talent of the other players,” said flutist Bobbi Lovenheim, flutist and teacher at George W. Julian Elementary School in Irvington. “Personally, I think it’s good for our students to see their teachers playing in another setting.” “There’s nothing like the fellowship, camaraderie and opportunity for growth found in participating in an ensemble. The new Flute Choir is a joyful addition the Music Ministry family at St. Luke’s” said Mark Squire. n — —
together in ministry everyday
APRIL—JUNE 2011
NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID INDIANAPOLIS, IN PERMIT NO. 1569
Address Service Requested
St. Luke’s United Methodist Church • 00 West 86th Street • Indianapolis, Indiana 4660
ExPANDED MIDWEEK LENTEN SERvICES
Wednesdays, now through april 20, noon & 6PM in robertson chapel Lunch/discussion at 12:30PM following the Noon service (no evening service 4/20) HoLY WEEK PRAYER vIGIL
Thursday, april 21, 8PM thru good Friday, april 22, 8PM in Fellowship hall APRIL 21 holY ThurSDaY 7PM, Sanctuary with communion
Easter at St. Luke’s eaSTer SUNDAY, APRIL 24
celebration Services 8:00, 9:30 and 11:15AM, Sanctuary (bus shuttle service provided from Springmill Elementary School) SunriSe Service—
6:30AM, Robertson Chapel, led by St. Luke’s youth FaMilY Fuel—10:45AM, Great Hall laTer@ST. luke’S—6PM, Robertson Chapel
easter at The garden MAUNDY THURSDAY—7PM, GooD FRIDAY—Noon
APRIL 22 gooD FriDaY Noon & 7PM, Sanctuary —4 —
Luke’s Lodge
at Beef and Boards
EASTER SERvICES
—8:15, 9:15 & 10:15AM at Beef and Boards —10:15AM at The Mansion at oak Hill