Connect @ St. Luke's Oct/Nov 2015

connect

OCT/NOV 2015

@

Find a Truly Rewarding Life

#Blessed

p.7

Crooked Creek Food Pantry: Progress! p. 13 Let’s Create Environments of Love, Challenge & Purpose p. 18 Give New Meaning to Celebrating Thanksgiving Family Style p. 20

editor’s note

#blessed ...

M E E T T H E E D I TO R

Long before I followed Twitter or Facebook – long before any other social medium made the term popular with a well-placed hash tag, I thought I knew what it meant to be “blessed.”

I lived in a mostly safe place with loving parents and a house full of siblings.

I never really knew what it meant to go to bed hungry. When I grew up, I attended school, got good grades, went to college and earned an advanced degree. I got married, had lovely children and gave them much of what I had growing up: safety and security. I thought I knew what it meant to be “blessed.”

When life kicked my tail – my divorce; the loss of loved ones; the loss of meaningful work – I learned that I had been confusing two notions: “blessing” and “priviledge.”

Rev. Patricia R. Case DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATION

WHAT’S A HASH TAG?

White. Middle Class. North American. Most of the opportunities that came to me in life were due to the accident of birth that gave me an advantage over other people on the planet. What I really understood, was what it mean to be “privileged.”

A hash tag (literally: #) is a

If the hash tag #blessed on social media is any indicator, I’m not alone in that misappropiration of the term. Folks posting this hashtag don’t typically consider Matthew 5 for their definition (Where Jesus asserts: “Blessed are the poor in spirit... those who mourn... the meek ...”).

Twitter, Instagram and

In this season when we prayerfully consider how we will share our time, talent and treasure through the ministries of St. Luke’s, what if we shared stories of life in this congregation teaching us what a blessing really is? (the story on page 20, for example) Using the hashtag #blessedstlukes, let’s start a different conversation: a conversation that matters.

Sometimes a hash tag gets

What’s your story? Share it on social media and tag it “#blessedstlukes.”

upwards of 9 million posts

way for people to search for posts (among the billions out there on Facebook, other social media) that have a common topic – and to begin a conversation. so popular that it becomes an ocean of information itself. #Blessed is a great example of this, with and counting.

Weekend Worship Opportunities St. Luke’s is an open community of Christians, offering multiple worship opportunities designed to meet you where you are in your journey with Christ.

TRADITIONAL • 8, 9:15 & 11AM The Sanctuary at 8AM & 9:15AM Robertson Chapel at 11AM with Rev. Rob Fuquay, Senior Pastor

CONTEMPORARY • 11AM The Sanctuary with Rev. Rob Fuquay, Senior Pastor

LATER @ ST. LUKE’S • 6PM Robertson Chapel with Dr. Marion Miller

THE GARDEN • 8:45 & 10AM Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre with Dr. Linda McCoy

TAIZÉ • 5PM Third Sunday of each month, by the baptismal font in the Sanctuary, with musical community and Rev. Kim King

Connect With Us CONTACT US 100 W. 86th St. Indianapolis, IN 46260 317.846.3404 stlukesumc.com

info@stlukesumc.com @stlukesumcindy Search for St. Luke’s United Methodist Church

St. Luke’s office is open 8:30AM-5PM Monday-Friday.

URGENT PASTORAL CARE NEEDS Our Prayer Chapel is available for silent prayer and meditation when the church is open. In case of a pastoral emergency, call 317-846-3404. After hours, leave a message including how our on-call pastor can reach you.

4 - FALL FESTIVAL

22 - ANGEL TREE

7 - SERMON SERIES

in this issue

feature stories 7 Feeling #BlessedStLukes?

St. Luke’s Senior Pastor Rob Fuquay outlines the #Blessed Stewardship Sermon Series and related events for October and early November.

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Also in this issue...

Crooked Creek: Progress!

The partnership with Dow AgroScience and Gleaners Food Bank, at the Pecar Eskanazi Health Center on North Michigan Road has had great success during its first seven months, according to Maria Blake, pantry operating officer.

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WORSHIP

6

YOUTH

8

YOUNG ADULTS

10

Let’s Create Environments of Love, Challenge & Purpose

OUTREACH

12

FELLOWSHIP

14

Pastor for Adult Discipleship, Eric Burton-Krieger, shares his vision for ministry with St. Luke’s.

CARE

15

MIND/BODY/SPIRIT

16

20 Give New Meaning to Celebrating Thanksgiving Family Style Pastor for Outreach, Jamalyn Peigh Williamson reports on a new project to house homeless families — right here at St. Luke’s.

ADULTS

18

FEATURE STORY

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O C T / N O V 201 5

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C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

WORSHIP

worship Looking for Your Place to Serve?

There are a variety of involvement schedules and musical levels where you can become involved with

Meet Our Team MARK SQUIRE Director of Music Ministries 6

FRAN WYATT Director of Contemporary Worship & Arts JASON BARNES Director of A/V Media

CHARLES MANNING Organist

AIMIE MORRIS Director of Children’s Music

St. Luke’s Music Ministries. There are even nonmusical opportunities that support the hundreds of music makers. If you’d like to share your gifts in music ministry, contact the Music Ministry Office at squirem@stlukesumc.com.

TAIZÉ MUSICAL COMMUNITY

CONTEMPORARY MUSICIANS & ARTISTS

3rd Sunday Monthly • 4-5:45PM

Director Fran Wyatt welcomes additional singers, players, dancers and artists. Contact him at wyattf@stlukesumc.com.

Small vocal and instrumental ensemble serving at monthly Taizé service (5-5:45PM), rehearses one hour before each service. Contact: Mark Squire squirem@stlukesumc.com

ST. LUKE’S ORCHESTRA

ST. LUKE’S CHANCEL CHOIR Thursdays • 7:30-9PM; Sunday Mornings Auditions are not necessary, although a love of singing is required. Contact Director Mark Squire: squirem@stlukesumc. com.

Rehearses Monthly; Plays 3rd Sunday For more information, or to sign up to play, contact Margaret Spilker, msspilker@aol.com, or Bob Zehr, rdzehr@oakhillmansion.com.

AUDIO-VISUAL & STAGE TEAMS Sunday Mornings There are plenty of wonderful people playing a variety of roles behind the scenes to make things look seamless in worship.

If you have an interest in the technology & staging behind the experience, contact Jason Barnes barnesj@stlukesumc.com or Fran Wyatt, wyattf@stlukesumc.com

JOYFUL SOUND Rehearses Thursdays • 6:30-7:15PM Sings 3rd Sundays • 8AM For more information, or to sign up to play, contact Mark Squire, squirem@stlukesumc.com

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Feeling #BlessedStLukes?

by Pastor Rob Fuquay Sr. Pastor, St. Luke’s UMC

I’m not on the popular social media outlets Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, but I understand that the keyword “#Blessed” is a hot item. Most posts imply that being blessed is about being better off.

However, in saying, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”(Acts 20:35) Jesus redefines what it means to better off. To be blessed, as Christ blesses, is about being a blessing.

During our Stewardship Sermon Series, #Blessed, we will plumb the biblical understanding of blessing, learn from the spiritual leaders in our faith tradition, and find encouragement in one another’s stories.

We even have our own hash tag: #BlessedStLukes. Here you can share stories of the ways you see God blessing the world through St. Luke’s.

During worship on Oct. 11, each participant will receive a Blessing Journal, designed to help us reflect on the ways we are blessed and how we can be a blessing.

On Nov. 1, our All Saints Day recognition celebrates the lives of those in the congregation who have died in the past year. Then, we spill out of worship to browse stations all over the building in a “Ministry Showcase” that encourages us to explore how we might share in God’s blessing power.

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SERMONS IN THE SERIES

“To be blessed, as Christ blesses, is about being a blessing.”

On Nov. 8, we make it official in one powerful moment of community commitment as we present our pledges together.

There is perhaps no greater joy than to feel blessed. I believe you will be refreshed in seeing your life as a blessing through this series.

C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

Oct. 11: What Does It Mean to Be Blessed?

Oct. 18: How to Live a Rewarding Life Oct. 25: The Value of Sacrifice Nov. 1 (Communion and All Saints’ Day): How Can I Make a Difference?

Nov. 8 (Commitment Sunday): What’s in Your Wallet?

YOUTH

youth Meet Our Team HEATHER CAMPBELL Associate Director of Youth Ministry

KEVIN DAVIS Director of Youth Ministry

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MINDIE MOORE Associate Director of Emerging Adults

SUNDAY MORNING

HIGH SCHOOL FALL RETREAT

Come to The Modge or The Lodge early each Sunday morning for games, snacks and hangout time. Both spaces provide a time of worship, large-group teaching and breakouts with dedicated small group leaders. The Lodge is located on the northeast corner of the parking lot, and The Modge is located between the main church building and The Lodge.

High School (Grades 9 - 12)

Middle School (Grades 5 & 6) 9:15-10:30AM & 11:00AM - Noon • The Modge

Junior High (Grades 7 & 8) 7th Grade Confirmation • 9:15 - 10:30AM & 11:00AM - Noon The Lodge

Nov. 20-22 • Chicago Both our High School and Young Adult groups will be heading to Chicago for the weekend to serve and learn. You’ll see a whole new side to Chicago as we serve alongside existing ministries and attend church in the city. We will be serving through and staying at Center For Student Missions, based on the campus of North Park University and located in the third most diverse zip code in the country. It’s going to be an incredible weekend of service and community! To learn more about Center for Student Missions visit their website at: http://csm.org/chicago.php. Questions? Contact Mindie Moore, moorem@stlukesumc.com or 317-846-3404 x369.

8th Grade • 9:15 - 10:30AM • The Lodge

UPCOMING EVENTS - SAVE THE DATE

High School (Grades 9 through 12) 9:15-10:30AM • The Lodge

High School Progressive Dinner & Lockin

MIDDLE SCHOOL INVITE NIGHT

5th - 8th Grade Overnight at the Lodge

Dec. 11-12

Dec. 18-19

Oct. 23 & Nov. 13 • 6:30 - 9:30PM • The Lodge One Friday each month we invite youth and their friends to fun events at St. Luke’s. Events are little to no cost. No signup necessary. Check parents newsletters and stlukesumc.com for more information on different activities for our Middle School and High School teens.

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How Pumpkins Help St. Luke’s Youth Engage In Life-Changing Mission Trips Through activities, retreats and mission trips, St. Luke’s youth experience a sense of community that aids their faith growth.

But these events cost money.

Thankfully, through participation in activities like pumpkin sales, pizza sales and the annual car wash, families can receive scholarship support.

‘MY GIRLS MET GOD ON THAT MISSION TRIP’

YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP BENEFITS ABOUND

This year our oldest daughter wanted to go on the West Virginia mission trip. We are a hard working family with middle school girls both in activities – and braces. It was a tough talk when we told our daughter she couldn’t go because we couldn’t afford it.

Youth Scholarships have been an integral part of our family’s mission experience.

We have worked many hours at the pumpkin patch, making pizzas & washing cars.

We’ve even staffed the hire-a-teen event.

Our daughter’s first trip to Haiti was nearly paid in full with our scholarship account.

Since then, we have helped fund trips to Peru, Wyoming and Haiti – as well as other retreats and trips.

Then we volunteered for pumpkin and pizza sales and the car wash, to help cover the cost for some of their youth activities.

To my astonishment, both of our girls had more than enough money in their accounts to go on the mission trip.

We will be much more diligent this year with our volunteering to save enough for this year's mission trip and start saving for the international experience.

My girls met God on that mission trip and I am so thankful for the scholarship funds that allowed them that wonderful opportunity.

– Jason & Dawn Bick

We feel so strongly about the benefits of scholarships that we are heading up the scholarship development team for our second term.

We have met many other involved youth and their families during this time. Several families have contributed to the success by being weekly coordinators and chairs of the fundraising events. We welcome all youth and their families to participate in the scholarship development events.

– Mike & Tracy Beer C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

SCHOLARSHIP SUPPORT To join the scholarship team or to help during October with pumpkin sales, please email Mike & Tracy Beer, beerfamily@outlook.com or call Tracy at 317-753-5494 or Mike at 317-753-5493.

“... TO MY ASTONISHMENT, BOTH OF OUR GIRLS HAD MORE THAN ENOUGH MONEY IN THEIR ACCOUNTS TO GO ON THE MISSION TRIP. …”

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YOUNG ADULTS

young adults

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SUNDAY COFFEE TIME

FALL RETREAT

Between Worship Services • Under the Stairs

Nov. 20-22 • Chicago

Every Sunday between the 9:15 and 11AM services, step into the Narthex and make your way to the little coffee nook we've set up under the stairs. Enjoy unstructured conversation with other young adults. The coffee is locally roasted by a member of the group. No coffee snobs here. We will have tea, too.

Both our High School and Young Adult groups will be heading to Chicago for the weekend to serve and learn. You'll see a whole new side to Chicago as we serve alongside existing ministries and attend church in the city. We will be serving through and staying at Center For Student Missions, based on the campus of North Park University and located in the third most diverse zip code in the country. It's going to be an incredible weekend of service and community! To learn more about Center for Student Missions visit their website at: http://csm.org/chicago.php. Questions? Contact Mindie Moore, moorem@stlukesumc.com or 317-846-3404 x369.

THE TABLE 3rd Friday each month • 7PM • The Lodge The Table is a collaborative worship experience that happens every 3rd Friday of the month. We meet in The Lodge and share a potluck meal, worship through song and discuss the month’s scripture and message.

O C T / N O V 201 5

Give our College Students Some Love NEXT STEPS:

MINDIE MOORE Associate Director of Emerging Adults “... CARE PACKAGES

One of my favorite things about this past Summer was getting to know many of our St. Luke’s College Students. Through our weekly college small group that met on Wednesday nights, we

WERE REMINDERS THAT EVEN THOUGH SCHOOL MIGHT'VE BEEN A CHALLENGE, SUPPORT WAS BEING SENT MY WAY! ...”

explored tough questions about

SPRING BREAK HAITI TRIP

faith, embraced our doubts, and made some strong friendships. And while Summer was an incredible time of connecting, it’s not the end

minders that even though school might’ve been a challenge, there was a huge amount of support being sent specifically my way!”

of the story. We’ll keep connecting

CAMPUS VISITS

with our College Students, whether

Another way we care for our College Students is to visit in-state colleges throughout the school year. We treat our students to a meal or coffee, and spend quality time catching up on their turf! These visits are an awesome way to connect and experience the world our students are a part of.

near or far.

CARE PACKAGES Every year, a team of incredible volunteers sends out care packages to let our students know that we are supporting them from home. One of our Indiana University students, Amanda Duba said she loved getting care packages last year, “The coffee gift cards and small snacks were constant re-

We would love to share this kind of supp ort with all of our St. Luke’s College St udents!

To make sure we have up dated information for you or your college-age child, please contact Mindie Mo ore by email at morem@stlukesumc.com to share their scho ol mailing address.

HAVE AN UGLY SWEATER? HERE’S YOUR XMAS PARTY College Students are invited to The Lodge on Sun., Dec. 20 at 6PM for an Ugly Sweater Party and White Elephant gift exchange!

We’ll have dinner and fun reuniting after a busy semester!

C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

This Spring Break (March 12-19), St. Luke’s is taking a group of College Students to Fondwa, Haiti for a week of serving and learning about this incredible culture!

Space is limited, so sign up soon! Email Mindie Moore, morem@stlukesumc.com for more info on cost and trip specifics.

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OUTREACH

outreach Looking for Your Place to Serve?

Outreach at St. Luke’s seeks to find and give hope to our neighbors in the community and around the globe.

BOX TOPS & LABELS FOR EDUCATION Starts Aug. 1 • West Passage Outreach Post

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United Methodist Women & Outreach invite you to help Fox Hill elementary and the Indiana United Methodist Children’s Home by collecting and delivering box tops for education to West Passage. Contact: outreach@stlukesumc.com

FLETCHER PLACE COMMUNITY CENTER VOLUNTEERING Help provide nourishment & love to families at Fletcher Place Community Center. Flexible hours. Breakfast – Oct. 8, 13, 16 & 27 and Nov. 10, 12, 20 & 24; contact Lucretia Scammahorn at 317-299-9472 for details. Prepare Dinner – Oct. 19 & 28; Nov. 16 & 25 from Noon – 1:30PM; Serve Dinner – from 2:30 – 4:45PM Contact Laura Mathews at lmat773@aol.com or 317-773-5300.

Or see the Fletcher Place Board in the Communications Center of the Main Office.

There are many ways to get involved in service through St. Luke's many ministry partners. If you are looking to serve regularly, go on a trip to Haiti or mentor a child or family in the community; there is a place for you.

Contact Pastor Jamalyn, williamsonj@stlukesumc.com to discover where God is calling to you serve.

of that school and have a feeling of accomplishment in that if I have helped one child feel better about themselves today, then I have done the Lord's work.”

“I had a wonderful little girl who worked so hard, loved to learn and was so eager to please,” said Tammy Elser. “One day she hid her spelling test hidden from me. It had an F at the top. She was at her Dad’s on Sunday nights, but he works and is not able to help with homework. Spelling tests were Mondays. So we set time aside to study spelling. She was so relieved to have the help.

I realized that is why St. Luke’s has been called to Fox Hill, to help with the small things, like spelling!” Sign up at stlukesumc.com or contact Tom Lange by email at tom.c.lange@gmail.com.

Meet Our Team

FOX HILL ELEMENTARY TUTORS OFFER HELP WITH ‘SMALL THINGS’

REV. JAMALYN PEIGH WILLIAMSON Pastor of Outreach Ministries

School Days • 802 Fox Hill Drive Last year, dozens of children lit up when St. Luke’s 70 different volunteers showed up to donate more than 3,000 hours to tutor them. But the kids are not the only ones glowing about this work.

“I love working with the children and have developed some special relationships with some of them,” said Becca Young. “I walk out O C T / N O V 201 5

MARY HACH Outreach Coordinator

Crooked Creek Food Pantry: Progress!

By Rev. Daniel R. Gangler Retired UMC Communicator Dan Gangler served most recently as Director of Communication for the Indiana United Methodist Conference.

The partnership with Dow AgroScience and Gleaners Food Bank, at the Pecar Eskanazi Health Center on North Michigan Road has had great success during its first seven months, according to

“... WE ARE PROVIDING

Maria Blake, pantry operating

RESTORATION OF

officer.

BODY, SOUL & SPIRIT

The new community outreach currently instills hope and dignity in the lives of 200 families a month – up from 45 families served in February when the pantry launched, she reports.

BECAUSE EVERYONE

“What we are doing here is more than providing food for the body. We are doing a restoration of soul and spirit, because everyone wants to feel respected,” she says.

“Everyone wants to feel that they have a sense of dignity and that it’s not just another handout. That’s what keeps me going with the food pantry.”

TWO SURPRISES The pantry had not expected a significant number of seniors with physical disabilities coming from nearby apartments. But these guests are among the growing clientelle.

Some residents even ride their motorized chairs down Michigan Road and up the health center driveway.

WANTS TO FEEL RESPECTED ...”

DID YOU KNOW? United Metho dist Women who are receiving fo o d donations in Octob er, supp ort a numb er of fo o d pantries, including Cro oked Creek, with their annual Fall Fo o d Drive. Visit West Passage on Sundays in Octob er for a grocery list!

languages other than English or Spanish.

The pastor of a nearby church, who is a native of Tanzania, often volunteers to translate for many of the African immigrants.

‘YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT THIS MEANS TO ME!’ Blake said it’s not unusual for a shopper to embrace a volunteer in tears and say, “You don’t know what this means to me.

I had absolutely nothing in my refrigerator or pantry and now I can go home and feed my children.”

The pantry is open for clients each Wednesdays, 2 - 6PM; Thursdays, 4 - 7PM; Fridays, 10AM - Noon & 2 - 4PM; and every 2nd Saturday 10AM - 1PM.

“Many seniors live alone. This becomes a social outing (as well as a food outing).

Many of them take up to 30 minutes to navigate the pantry. This is a place people look forward to coming to.”

Another surprise is new guests who are recent immigrants from Eastern Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia, speaking

C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

Bright red Crooked Creek Food Pantry reusable bags are available for shoppers to collect donations. Drop off is in West Passage at the Outreach Post or Door 7 bins.

For more information about the pantry, contact Maria Blake at 471-9064 or by email at mariawblake@yahoo.com.

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FELLOWSHIP

fellowship Looking for Friends?

Here are a few of the many ways to connect at St. Luke’s for fellowship & fun.

ELDERBERRIES

UMW - EVE CIRCLE

Pitch-in - Nov. 5 • 5:30PM • Fellowship Hall Euchre - Oct. 17 & Nov. 21 • 6:45PM • Parlor

Oct. 6, 20 & Nov. 3, 17 • 9:30-11:30AM • Parlor

These activities offer great fellowship opportunities for the 40plus set. Contact Adra Wheeler 846-3404 for more information.

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UMW - NEW LIFE CIRCLE Oct. 20, Nov. 17 • 7PM • Spiritual Life Center

Moms with young children invited for fellowship, service & spiritual growth. Guests speakers will include Jannifer Lance, Rev. Kim King, and Terri Coe. First and third Tuesdays each month. Reserve child care in advance or learn more: evecircle@ yahoo.com.

UMW - SARAH CIRCLE

In October, we welcome Dr. Carolyn J. Scanlan-Holmes for a light-hearted evening of fun, faith and fellowship. In November, we talk about the holiday season and loss in our lives, with Rev. Marsha Hutchinson. New Life Circle welcomes single, divorced and widowed women of all ages. Contact: Nancy at 341-5032 or email at nchopper26@yahoo.com or Cathy at 334-7821.

Mon., Oct. 19, Nov. 16 • 1PM • Parlor Jessie Langley, Director of Fletcher Place will be our speaker in October. Jamalyn Peigh Williamson joins us in November. Questions? Contact Mary Cole, maryc4strings1@hotmail.com.

UMW READING GROUP

UMW - MARY MAGDALENE CIRCLE

Oct. 26, Nov. 23 • 7 - 8:30PM • Parlor

Oct. 14 • 6:30PM • Parlor | Nov. 1 • Indiana UM Children’s Home | Nov. 11 • Bazaar Baking This circle, which welcomes all women of St. Luke’s, will hold its regular meeting in October, then hit the road on Nov. 1 for the Pizza Party in Lebanon, IN, at the IUMC Children’s Home.

Learn details about the baking project at one of these meetings or contact Jolynne at wilhoitj@businessfurnitureindy.com

We'll learn about the life of Sonia Sotomayor when we meet in October to discuss her book, My Beloved World. In November will read and discuss Ordinary Grace: A Novel by William Kent Krueger.

Contact: Jennifer Todd, jtoddosu@aol.com

CO-ED VOLLEYBALL Mon., Sept. 21 • 6:30PM • Great Hall • $25 Teams are forming for co-ed volleyball. Play is competitive, but friendly (no spiking, blocking, overhand serves). Emphasis is on fellowship and fun. Sign up as a team or individual. Contact Brent Scott, brentsco10@att.net.

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care Looking for Support?

Care Ministries of St. Luke’s provides visitation, care and support for our members. Please contact Pastor Kim King, kingk@stlukesumc.com

CARE & SUPPORT

Meet Our Team

Family Support: Family Addiction - 2nd Weds. Monthly • 6:30PM

Main Office Conference Room Chronic Illness: 3rd Mon. • 6:30PM • Rm. 101

REV. KIM KING Pastor Care Ministry

Adult ADD: 3rd Thurs. • 7PM • W125 Grief & Loss Support:

Spousal Loss – Sun. • 2PM •Parlor

Children – (Brooke's Place): Mon. & Thu. • 6:30PM

Dad’s – Tues. 7AM • Offsite

Infant & Prenatal Loss – 2nd Tues. Monthly • 7PM

Spiritual Life Center

Men – Thurs. • 11AM • Luke’s Lodge

MARY KATHERINE SCHNITZ Director Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministry: One-to-one Christian friendship; by appointment

ADRA WHEELER Coordinator Elder Ministry

Contact Sarah Clapp, clapps@stlukesumc.com for details.

BETTY BRANDT Director Spiritual Life Center

HEALTH CARE Blood Drive: Oct. 18 • 9AM - 1PM • Great Hall Blood Pressure Screening: Oct. 11/Nov. 8 • 9AM - Noon • Main Office

SARAH CLAPP Administrative Assistant

CPR, AED & Life Saving Class: Nov. 14 • 9AM - Noon • E107/109 • $15 Contact Sarah Clapp, clapps@stlukesumc.com for details.

Holiday Bazaar Nov. 14 • 9AM - 4PM • St. Luke’s • Free Admission SHOPPERS: Grab a friend and spend some time shopping & snacking. More than 140 vendors sell hand-made items from jewelry & clothing, to pottery & artwork at one of the largest holiday bazaars in the area. Great food. Awesome cinnamon rolls.

VOLUNTEERS: Bake Days are Nov. 13-14. Direct food preparation and serving questions to Debbie Stevens at 317-334-9576 or email dstevens11@indy.rr.com. Direct pie prep questions to Elizabeth Keller at 317-594-9544 or email jimandlizkeller@sbcglobal.net.

C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

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SPIRITUAL LIFE CENTER

mind. body. spirit.

You don’t have a soul. You are a soul.

- C.S. Lewis

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Recognizing that our minds, bodies and spirits need care, Spiritual Life Center offers both classroom experiences and alternatives to classroom experiences on topics selected to deepen one's spiritual life. To learn more, contact Betty Brandt, director or visit us at stlukesumc.com

ON BEING • Ongoing

HEALING PARTNERS • Ongoing

Sundays • 9:15 - 10:15AM • Spiritual Life Center

Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays • N103/104

Based on the American Public Media radio show, “On Being,” hosted by Krista Tippett. Listen to FM90.1 at 9PM on Thursdays, or at 7AM on Sundays or listen online (onbeing.org).

The Pilgrimage Healing Process is a “hands-on” healing prayer experience developed by Episcopal priest, Tanya Beck. Make an appointment by calling 846-3404 x442 or emailing healingministries@stlukesumc.com. No fee, donations accepted.

YOGA FOR STRESS • $15 • Ongoing

PRAYER SHAWL • Ongoing

Mondays • 9:30 - 10:45AM • N103/104 Thursdays • 8:30 - 9:45AM • N103/104

Tuesdays • 1 - 3PM • Luke’s Lodge

Ending with a 15-minute guided deep relaxation, this class will help you gain balance, strength and flexibility in your body – and peace and calm in your mind. All levels are welcome to join. A great way to start your day. Instructor Marsha Pappas. Register online or at the first class.

Join in a prayerful practice of knitting or crocheting prayer shawls for those needing to be wrapped in God’s healing love. New knitters welcome. Led by Helen Vriesman.

STUDIO 3 ART • Ongoing Thursdays • 10AM - Noon • C122

GENTLE YOGA • $5 • Ongoing Mondays -or- Thursdays • 5:30 - 6:30PM • N103/104 Open to all ages and abilities, this gentle yoga class welcomes those not flexible enough to sit on the floor (chairs provided) as well as those who can sit on the floor (bring a mat and a blanket).

Carol Holden leads.

Anyone interested in building an art community at St. Luke’s is welcome to come spend the morning with other artists. Bring your favorite medium and plan to go out to lunch. Occasional field trips and pitch-ins, too. For more information, contact Susie Gilbert at sulinn2000@yahoo.com.

SERMON DISCUSSION • Ongoing 1st & 3rd Fridays • 1PM • Marquette Manor An off-site senior adult sermon discussion class. Led by Barbara Furlow.

O C T / N O V 201 5

HEALING PARTNERS TRAINING

BRINGING LOVE TO LIFE

Nov. 21 • 8:30AM–4PM • Spiritual Life Center • $150

Nov. 3, 10 & 17 • 10–11:30AM • N103

Learn the Pilgrimage Healing process model of the art of healing. Registration required. Fee covers manual, DVD and lunch; $50 deposit due Nov. 13. Call 846-3404 x442 or email healingministries@stlukesumc.com to schedule a prerequisite healing session. Questions? Call Betty Brandt at 846-3404 x339 or email brandtb@stlukesumc.com.

Richard Brendan, Hospice Chaplin for 12 years will facilitate what is essentially a conversation around the question, “Knowing that we shall die, how shall we live?”

ST. LUKE’S AT THE MOVIES Oct. 23 & Nov. 20 • 7 - 9PM • Parlor • Dessert

INTERPLAY – WISDOM OF YOUR BODY Oct. 1 & 15 • 7-8:15PM • Fellowship Hall Nov. 5 & 19 • The Modge • $10/session Wear comfortable clothes. InterPlay is a 20-year-old global social movement dedicated to ease, connecting human sustainability and play – www.interplay.org. Led by Cindy Pile, MDiv, MA and author of Traveling with the Turtle: A Small Group Process in Women’s Spirituality and Peacemaking.

Our October movie is “Temple Grandin,” based on the life of this famous animal husbandry expert, who overcomes prejudice on her way to innovation in animal care. In November, “Still Alice” tells the story of renowned linguistic professor Alice Howland after she is diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease.

STORYTELLING WITH SALLY PERKINS Oct. 27 • 7 - 8PM • Robertson Chapel Love and Hatred Cannot Affect Us is a collection of short, beautiful wisdom folk tales and historical stories from around the world.

Appropriate for teens and adults.

SOUP & SPEAKER SERIES Oct. 14, 28 and Nov. 4 • Noon - 1:15PM Oct. 21 • 6-8PM• Fellowship Hall

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MINDFULNESS SEMINAR

Learn about alternative healing modalities. No reservations required. Details at stlukesumc.com

Nov. 2,16 • 1 - 2:30PM • Spiritual Life Center Mindfulness is an ancient practice of increasing awareness and living more in harmony with one’s self and the universe. Bring a journal or notebook to each session. Barbara Burke leads.

A New Name for Oasis Bo okstore

C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

FEATURE STORY

adults

Let’s Create Environments of Love, Challenge & Purpose

By Rev. Eric Burton-Krieger Pastor of Adult Discipleship Eric joins St. Luke’s in July, after having served in Brentwood UMC, near Nashville, Tenn. He was ordained this summer.

In short, to better know the kind of environments we should create at St. Luke’s, I need to hear from you.

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I broke one of my own rules a week ago.

I found a copy of the previous issue of Connect @ St. Luke’s magazine in my mailbox with notes handwritten all over the portion of the magazine that was our Fall Catalog. There was no name attached.

My rule has been to not read anonymous feedback. I read it anyway.

As I scanned the handwritten note it became clear that of the 55 classes/groups available (22 of which were Disciple Bible Study classes) very few of these worked for the family giving me feedback. The note indicated that two working parents with young children lead this household.

The parents desire to be in a group/study together, but of all the offerings, none seemed designed with their needs in mind.

They were struggling to find their place.

I want this family to feel heard. I want my ministry to be about helping new opportunities grow at St. Luke’s. I wish there had been a name so that I could find out more. But what I already know is this: As a new staff member here I have the ability to ask lots of questions and to name the strengths and the places for growth I see. Having adult offerings better aligned with other activities for children and youth (Chancel Choir for example); having activities that take into account bed times seem like obvious areas for attention.

So does having more groups gather in people’s homes and the neighborhoods in which they live.

While these are some of my initial thoughts, they need to be shaped and molded by your stories and desires. In short, to better know the kind of environments we should create, I need to hear from you.

O C T / N O V 201 5

I made a commitment when I joined the staff to support the environments for growth already in place – Disciple Bible Study, Lenten Small Groups, classes that were meeting – because spiritual growth is happening there. Frankly, I’d be crazy not to honor, learn from and build on that.

I’m also aware that as we enter this new season that we’ll need additional offerings that take into account the seasons of people’s lives. In doing this we’ll have to take some risks, listen a lot and be patient to follow God’s lead in our midst.

My first risk will start as I begin recruiting Lenten Small Group hosts. You see Lent comes early this year (Feb. 10) and I have a sense that there are folks who are feeling like they could host a group for the first time.

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“... MY ROLE ... IS TO HELP CREATE ENVIRONMENTS WHERE OPEN COMMUNITIES OF CHRISTIANS GATHER – PEOPLE

CREATING ENVIRONMENTS:

WHO LOVE US, CHALLENGE US AND SERVE WITH US TO

To invite Pastor Eric Burton-Krieger to your group, contact him by email at burton-kriegere@stlukesumc.com or call 846-3404 x312.

MAKE A MEANINGFUL DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD. ...”

To decide if this is a fit, I’m inviting folks to try it out – to take part in a four-week small group experience from Oct. 18 – Nov. 8. Groups will meet at different days and times.

I also know that some people have been waiting to get into a group. Perhaps you joined our sign-up in October, and/or you’ll commit beyond that four-week trial. Feel free to email me if you’re interested or have questions.

Groups to me are not God’s design for all of us; not a one-size-fits-all. There are plenty of beautifully introverted people after all!

But in community with spiritual friends we are more open to how God might transform us and through us our world.

That’s why my role at St. Luke’s is really to help create environments where open communities of Christians gather – people who love us, challenge us and serve with us to make a meaningful difference in the C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

world. My prayer is in the coming months I’ll continue to learn more about the shapes this might take. I hope you’ll reach out and share your thoughts, invite me to your group that is already meeting, or step out in faith and try one of the four-week groups we’re forming.

I’m grateful to be on this journey seeking and serving Christ with you.

FEATURE STORY

This Project Gives New Meaning to CelebratingThanksgiving Family Style

By Rev. Jamalyn Peigh Williamson Pastor of Outreach

Ever been homeless? The guest families we will house this Thanksgiving know exactly what

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it’s like. For one week, they are in

“... DINNER IS SERVED FAMILY STYLE AS GUESTS AND

our care through a partnership

VOLUNTEERS SHARE THE MEAL TOGETHER. FAMILIES

with Family Promise. Don’t miss

ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR CHILDREN AND HELP WITH

this opportunity to help your

CLEANUP AND CHORES.. ...”

family understand what it means to welcome everyone.

This year, during the week of Thanksgiving, St. Luke’s will host four families working with Family Promise of Indianapolis.

Family Promise is a partnership of congregations and community organizations responding to the crisis of children and their families who are homeless.

This is a great opportunity for families to serve together by making a dinner, eating with the families and discussing how God has called us to welcome everyone.

Families will be staying at the Lodge beginning Sunday evening, Nov. 22. Prior to their arrival, a van will arrive with beds and the families’ personal belongings to be set up in a designated space.

When the families arrive they will settle in and become acquainted with the volunteers and the Lodge. After dinner, activities are available for families. Some take advantage or the free time before

turning in for bed. A host volunteer will stay at the Lodge overnight and assist guests with breakfast and departure to the Day Center downtown the following morning. Food is available for guests to make lunches to take to the Day Center.

Families leave for the Day Center in time to get to work or school.

Guests work with a case manager to overcome the barriers they face in finding stable housing. Guests are transported back to the hosting congregation each evening.

The following Sunday, families pack their beds and belongings and leave the facility. They are transported to the Day Center and are picked up that afternoon by the next hosting congregation.

To learn more, email outreach@stlukesumc.com, or simply sign up at stlukesumc.com.

O C T / N O V 201 5

Hang an ornament.

Make a difference.

Dawn and Mark Dinwiddie got the whole family involved in last year’s Angel Tree Christmas giving project at St. Luke’s. Even Mary, Jane and Ellie all got into the spirit of the season. Angel Tree collections begin this year on Nov. 15, with hopes of helping more neighbors than ever.

Learn more about how your family can help other families.Email: outreach@stlukeumc.com

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Giving Opportunities • Donate $100 to buy a specialty Kroger Gift Card • Purchase a “Home Essentials” Basket • Purchase gifts for an individual or family • Sponsor a person/family by donating money • Donate money for United Christmas Service Vouchers • Assist families shopping on Dec. 20

Where Can I Sponsor Someone or Donate Money?

• At tables on Sunday mornings between services Nov. 15 – Dec. 13 • Online at stlukesumc.com Nov. 15 – Dec. 6

When/Where are Gifts Received?

• Dec. 6 & 13 at the Angel Tree Narthex table or the Main Office during the week • Gifts need to be dropped off by Mon., Dec. 14 C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

ENJOY LUNCH – THEN DESSERT W/PASTORS You're invited to meet St. Luke’s pastors and learn more about the church.

Sunday • Oct. 18 Noon - 1:30PM • Fellowship Hall/Parlor Childcare is available for time with pastors after lunch.

CONSIDER TAKING OUR MEMBERSHIP CLASS Pastor Rob Fuquay and other pastors/staff will share about our mission. You’ll also learn what membership at St. Luke’s involves.

Sunday • Nov. 8 • Luke’s Lodge

new here?

Welcome! It’s great to meet you.

St. Luke’s strives to be an open and welcoming faith community. Together, we live out our mission: “to seek, celebrate, serve and share the love of God for all creation.”

WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN MORE? Talk to someone at our New Here Table (located in our lobby/staffed on Sundays) or contact Terri Coe, Director of New Here Ministries at 317846-3404 x308 or coet@stlukesumc.com.

Register at stlukesumc.com for these experiences.

stlukesumc.com • @stlukesumcindy • Search for St. Luke's United Methodist Church on Facebook