Connect @ St. Luke's Dec/Jan 2015

connect

DEC 2015/JAN 2016

@

Pardon Our

PROGRESS!

p. 4

ST. LUKE'S ENDS 2015 STRONG

Still Counting Our #Blessings

p. 7

Serving Changes Lives of Youth p. 9 Lenten Groups: What! Already? p. 18

editor’s note

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

What a year!

St. Luke’s hallways and offices buzz in preparation for Advent as 2015 comes to a close. Meanwhile, 2016 is almost here!

The Christmas Concert was a hit, packing the house (1,400 seats) twice!

We sang right past the $15,000 matching grant, with receipts of $23,000 in the two performances. That’s $38,000 for Crooked Creek Food Pantry.

Camels – and other neighbors – graced our hallways for the Live Nativity and Global Village. Plus, we created a new Jazzy Christmas concert this year with JoySwing Band and our own musicians. Just a few moments in any of these events reminds us just how music communicates hope in our world.

Rev. Patricia R. Case DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATION

NONE: THE NEW RELIGION

Among other markers of a solid year of ministry in 2015, was a strong showing for our annual stewardship campaign: More than 100 new pledgers, per capita giving up, and grand totals setting new highs to underwrite an ambitious 2016 budget. (p. 7)

More Americans – especially

In late 2015, the Governing Board heard overwhelming support to move times and locations for our worship services to better serve all parties – not the least of which are our neighbors. That shift is slated for early Lent. (p. 4)

According to the Pew

Our youth and children’s programs continue to prosper with new vitality, as we equip a new generation to take important steps as Christian leaders. You may already be aware that this growth defies national trends. A whole new curriculum written by our staff called “Steps”, which you read about in the Aug/Sept edition is now part of the weekly experience of our children. If you managed to be part of St. Luke’s in 2015 and didn’t get a chance to serve in one form or another, your experience was incomplete! Ask our Youth and Young Adults, whose service experiences are stretching them emotionally and spiritually. (p. 8-11)

itself "unaffiliated" with any

During Lent 2016, our church will strive to grow the number of adult small groups we gather. This model helps members and guests of a large church flourish with life-giving connection – the kind of connection that equips us to reach out with purpose and power to the community around us. (p. 18) As you consider 2016 at St. Luke’s, what difference will it make that you are part of this faith community? Your answer will shape St. Luke’s faithful response to the challenges in our world in 2016.

Keep the faith!

younger ones – have developed a deep aversion to institutionalized relgion.

Research Center, the part of the population that calls religious group saw a gain of 6.7% between 2007 and 2014, while Christians in the population dropped by the same margin. Roughly 36% of those between 18 and 24 are religiously unaffiliated. St. Luke's faced this challenge head-on in 2012 – focusing our mission on growing younger as a congregation. Roughly 38% of new members who joined St. Luke's in 2015 were under 40 years old.

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. Please note: these times and locations will shift in early 2016.

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. Carolyn Scanlan

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 - SAWS IN THE CHAPEL?

7 - THANK YOU!

18 - GROWING IN LENT

in this issue

feature stories 4 Pardon our Progress!

St. Luke’s Lay Leader Sara B. Cobb, offers insight into worship space and time changes coming in 2016, on the heels of overwhelming congregational support of this recommended action.

Also in this issue...

7 Counting our #Blessings What would it take for St. Luke’s to be an even greater blessing in this time and place? Today, the possibilities grow as pledges are tallied.

9 Serving Changes Lives of St. Luke’s Youth During this season, teens could easily focus on what they may be receiving, instead we often hear our teens focus their attention on others.

18 Lenten Small Groups: What? Already?

With Ash Wednesday Feb. 10, it’s time to get serious about Lenten Small groups. These are people who can become friends, encourage each other's faithfulness, and serve God and neighbor in important ways to make a difference.

WORSHIP

6

YOUTH

8

YOUNG ADULTS

10

OUTREACH

12

FELLOWSHIP

14

CARE

15

MIND/BODY/SPIRIT

16

ADULTS

18

FEATURE STORY

PARDON OUR PROGRESS!

Shifts in Time & Space for Worship Aim to Ease Flow, Live Out St. Luke’s Mission

by Sara B. Cobb Lay Leader, St. Luke’s UMC

With overwhelming support of the congregation, the St. Luke's General Board moves ahead to shift worship times and spaces in early 2016 to better serve all parties. Target 4

date is early in Lent. Construction progress will determine whether or not that goal can be reached.

Over the past two years, St. Luke's made some bold changes to live out our mission and vision to be an open community of Christians reaching out to share the love of Jesus Christ with our neighbors who have no spiritual home. In March 2014, we started a new Contemporary Worship Service at 11AM in the Sanctuary. One year later, we launched an 11AM Traditional Worship Service in Robertson Chapel.

THE CHALLENGES As we have lived into these worship times and spaces, we have discovered unique challenges: Set up between services must happen in a short amount of time for the Contemporary service.

Warm-up time for the Contemporary worship service in the Sanctuary also is extremely limited.

Likewise, movement is rushed for orchestra, choirs and other groups from the Sanctuary to the Chapel between 9:15 and 11AM services.

11AM Traditional Worship Service will move to the Sanctuary.

The Board continues to give serious consideration to the addition of adding a second Contemporary Service at 9:30AM, as attendance gains momentum necessary to accommodate that move.

THE NEW PLAN

THE PREACHING

After receiving the response of the congregation about recommendations for changes, the Governing Board is moving ahead to give each worship style a dedicated worship space, and to shift worship times to previous worship times of 8:15, 9:30 & 11AM.

Senior Pastor Rob Fuquay will be the primary preacher for the first two Traditional services, and the 11AM Contemporary worship service in the Chapel.

Thus, the 11AM Contemporary Worship Service will move to the Chapel and the D E C 2 0 1 5/ J A N 2 0 1 6

Pastor David Williamson and other associate pastors will preach in the 11AM service in the Sanctuary and 9:30AM Contemporary in the Chapel when it begins.

5

“... We recommend making the shift early in the season of Lent …”

THE CHILDREN At present, our 9:30AM children’s program uses the Chapel for a gathering worship place. We are creating an exciting, dedicated worship space for our children in rooms E105-E109, due to be ready in Spring.

THE FUNDING Last summer our church launched a quiet campaign to raise $1.2M for facility improvements. Those funds supported the upgrades to the parking lot last summer and will support the creation of a dedicated worship gathering space for our children,

upgrades to Great Hall Kitchen and Great Hall – as well as sound, lights and A/V improvements to Robertson Chapel. We are still in need of funds for our $1.2M goal which so far have come from a handful of generous St. Luke’s givers – over and above their gifts to the annual ministry operation.

To learn more about making a gift, please be in touch with me: sbcobb@indy.rr.com | 317-733-0742

WHEN WILL WE SHIFT? We recommend making the shift early in the season of Lent. Construction progress will determine whether that goal is reached.

C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

UPDATES: Construction is underway in Robertson Chapel to upgrade both physical and audio/visual aspects of the space.

THANK YOU This congregation has collectively made a decision to move forward with a plan that promises to do more than ease logistics between services.

This move sets us up to more faithfully serve in ministry with focus and intentionality. Thank you for your input on what I believe to be a very important decision in the life of the church.

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

D E C 2 0 1 5/ J A N 2 0 1 6

Thanks, St. Luke's, for the overwhelming response to the annual stewardship campaign.

Your gifts have us well on our way to do great things in ministry in 2016.

Still Counting Our #Blessings at St. Luke’s What would it take for St. Luke’s to be an even greater blessing in this time and place?

In October, a 2016 the #Blessed budget proposal showed what could happen if we stepped up our income by nine percent. By December, St. Luke’s had an answer.

With receipts still be tabulated, we are already more than 80% to our goal, with about 10% of our pledges coming from people who never have pledged their giving at St. Luke’s. Meanwhile, those who have been giving are being even more generous this year than last. Early totals were tracking record giving, with the number of pledges also ahead of 2015 at the same time in last year's stewardship campaign.

If you have not had the chance to decide what your giving commitment will be, now is the time. Pledges not only help

us set goals and grow in the area of generosity. They also help the church plan responsibly for ministry in the coming year. Pledge cards are available in your pew pocket, or stop by the Main Office for one. You may also pledge and give online. Contact systems administrator, Jilliane Pruiett pruiettj@stlukesumc.com As you consider your giving, here are some of the areas where growth could boost St. Luke’s ministry impact in 2016.

SERVE & CARE • Serve our neighbors with dignity and respect by strengthening Crooked Creek Food Pantry • Step up mentoring and education to low-income families • Support health and education in developing countries • Tithe 11 percent of income to UMC Ministries around the world WELCOME, CONNECT & GROW • Support Adult Discipleship with a growing small-group ministry • Expand New Here to connect better with the roughly 1,000 first-time guests each year • Develop and implement a robust C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

marketing plan to extend an open invitation to our neighbors WORSHIP Upgrade equipment and add staff to fully support more meaningful worship in two locations: Robertson Chapel and the Sanctuary.

FACILITIES & GROUNDS • Renovate and better manage use of the Great Hall Kitchen • Continue to maintain and improve outdoor grounds, including new green spaces • Upgrade the Welcome Desk in the Narthex to demonstrate our hospitality • Address overdue maintenance projects including East Passage floors and restrooms • Upgrade Preschool playground equipment and fencing While any and all of these areas of improvements require fully funding the 2016 Budget, the hearty response so far bodes well for a promising 2016!

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WORSHIP

L O NG EST N IG H T Dec. 21 | 6PM* | Rob ertson Chap el

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Co m e c e le b r a te t he H o p e o f C h rist i n t he m id s t o f da r k n e s s * c hi ld c a r e i s a v a i l a b l e

D E C 2 0 1 5/ J A N 2 0 1 6

Restore Your Sense of Wonder Christmas Eve Eve - Dec. 23 7P M* | Contem p or ar y w /Co m m u n io n | Ro b e r t s o n C h ap e l

Christmas Eve - Dec. 24 3PM | Fa m i l y C hr i s tm as Se r v ice | Sa n c t u a r y 5 PM* | Con tem p or ar y w /Co m m u n io n | Ro b e r t s o n C h ap e l 5 PM*, 7PM* & 9 PM | Tr a d it io n a l | Sa n c t u a r y

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11P M | Trad i ti onal w / Comm u n io n | Ro b e r t s o n C h a p e l * Childc are a v a ila b le

In the sof t glow of candlelight, we rememb er the love that claims us, and the light that leads us.

C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

YOUTH

youth Meet Our Team KEVIN DAVIS Director of Youth Ministry

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HEATHER CAMPBELL Associate Director of Youth Ministry

MINDIE MOORE Associate Director of Emerging Adults

SUNDAY MORNING

MIDDLE SCHOOL OVERNIGHTER

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.

Dec. 18-19 | 7PM - 8AM | The Lodge | $30 fee

Middle School (Grades 5 through 8) Grades 5 & 6 | 9:15 - 10:30AM & 11:00AM - Noon • The Modge 7th Grade Confirmation | 9:15 - 10:30AM & 11:00AM - Noon • The Lodge 8th Grade | 9:15 - 10:30AM • The Lodge

High School (Grades 9 through 12)

We'll begin with pizza, games, worship and teaching; then hit SkyZone at Midnight! Then it's games (like Sardines!) at The Lodge until morning. Christmas costumes (there will be prizes). Contact Heather Campbell campbellh@stlukesumc.com.

CAMP LUKE REVEAL PARTY Middle School | Jan. 31 | 4 to 6PM | Fellowship Hall If you're interested in volunteering at Camp Luke in the Summer of 2015, then come to the reveal party where we announce the theme.

RSVP with Heather Campbell, campbellh@stlukesumc.com.

EARN $$ FOR MISSION TRIPS

9:15 - 10:30AM • The Lodge

All Youth | Jan. 3 - Feb. 7 Sell pizzas on Sundays, make pizzas Feb. 6 or distribute pizzas Feb. 7. Order forms at the Lodge. Sign up with Dawn & Jason Bick dbick_20000@yahoo.com or jason.bick@att.net.

MIDDLE SCHOOL INVITE NIGHT Jan. 8 • Feb. 5 • Mar. 11• April 1 • May 13 | 6:30 - 9:30PM | The Lodge We'll kick off Invite Night again with one of our favorite activities: Nerf & Nachos Night! Just show up! We'll have other activities as well, including worship and teaching. Invite Night always begins and ends at Luke's Lodge. We stay on campus for a fun night with no cost and no sign up. Invite your 5th- to 8th-grade friends.

HIGH SCHOOL EVENTS High School Progressive Dinner & Lock in Dec. 11-12 - Travel to youth homes for each course of dinner; overnight option at The Lodge, with movie & games.

8th - 12th Grade Winter Retreat w/skiing Feb. 12-14 - Beechpoint Christian Camp, Mich.

D E C 2 0 1 5/ J A N 2 0 1 6

Service Changes Youth Servants’ Lives Serving others is a transformative experience for all involved. Whether it’s a mission trip, a day of service, or the Angel Tree, our teens are working alongside adults to serve.

During these experiences we see teens grow dramatically in their faith. During this season, teens could easily focus on what they may be receiving, instead we often hear our teens focus their attention on others. Here are just

MLK Service Day - Jan. 18

a few examples: ‘THAT'S WHY I SERVE. IT CHANGES MY HEART ... ’ When I signed up for Puerto Rico (mission trip) last year, I was desperate. I felt like I was way off base from where I should've been; totally anxious and depressed all the time. I was desperately searching for something to lead me back to God. I thought: "Hey, what's better than service?

You love kiddos, you love your church, you love helping others. I'll bet you God is right there in the midst of all that.’’ So I signed myself up, and turns out I was so right and so loved. That's why I serve.

It changes my heart and it gives me the opportunity to make someone else feel so special, like they deserve.

“... WHEN I’M SERVING, I REALIZE JUST HOW

Use your gifts and serve in our local community on the Day of Service to honor Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We'll meet at the Lodge at 9AM and be back by 3PM.

BLESSED I AM AND HOW MUCH I HAVE TO GIVE. …”

‘SERVING HELPS ME (TELL) THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MY NEEDS & MY WANTS ... ’ Happiness. One of the times I feel it is when I’m serving with my Youth Group.

The sensation that comes from serving doesn’t come just out of helping others, but also from helping myself in the process. When I’m serving, I realize just how blessed I am and how much I have to give;

C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

how much I have to lose. If I lose any of it, though, I won’t care, because I already have everything I truly need: a loving family, a friendly community, edible food, pure water to drink, a roof over my head and clothes on my back. Serving helps me keep in perspective the difference between my needs and my wants. I don’t know what the future may hold, but I imagine a world where all people have clean water, food, loving families and loving communities. I know what I imagine is very hard to achieve, but if we all pitch in and help, it just might be possible. It all starts with a little helping hand to the least of these in our lives.

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YOUNG ADULTS

young adults

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COFFEE TIME: While the halls are decked with b oughs of holly, the Young Adult Sunday Coffee Time might b e harder to lo cate. Head to the east end of the Narthex to f ind them sipping their own sp ecially roasted coffee.

SUNDAY COFFEE TIME

HAVE AN UGLY SWEATER?

Between Worship Services • Under the Stairs

Dec. 20 • 6PM • The Lodge

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.

College students are invited to put on their ugliest holiday sweater, and bring a goofy gift for a White Elephant gift exchange. We'll have dinner and fun reuniting after a busy semester at school!

SPRING BREAK HAITI TRIP Mar. 12-19 • Fondwa Haiti

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.

This Spring Break, 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, moorem@stlukesumc.com for more info on cost and trip specifics.

D E C 2 0 1 5/ J A N 2 0 1 6

Serving Helps Put Focus On Purpose MINDIE MOORE Associate Director of Emerging Adults “... WHILE ON THIS

Big things happen when we

TRIP WE HELPED THE

GOOD NEWS:

serve together. Not only does

PEOPLE OF HAITI,

the church mobilize to shape the

BUT HAITI HELPED

world through service, but those

ME FIND MY PASSION

who serve are transformed. I had

AND PURPOSE! ...”

In the last issue of Connect @ St. Luke's, we advised you of the new college student programming we are engaging in to keep this group of St. Luke's folks engaged in the faith community, even when they are away for college. One of our efforts is a note-writing ministry that encourages college students at particularly stressful times, like f inals week! This year, with your help, we increased our care contact from a handful of students to 80!

the opportunity to see this while in Fondwa, Haiti last summer.

Here, college freshman Madeline Brunner tells how serving in Haiti impacted her: When asked the question of how the Haiti trip impacted me I don't even know where to begin. Mission work has always been a passion of mine. I have been always looking for a way to incorporate it into my everyday life and my future career.

I went to Haiti the summer before my freshman year of nursing school. I can definitely say it helped me figure out my career plan.

While in the country we worked at a site where a birthing center was being built. At that moment I knew that medical missions was my dream job and the final piece of the puzzle to my career path was found.

I found it amazing that there would be a place for women to go to for assistance with giving birth in a safe and sterile environment.

Also by going to Haiti I fell in love with the people and the environment. The loving atmosphere between the people was eye opening. I saw this in the children taking care of each other in the orphanage, especially how the older kids took care of a young girl with autism.

After seeing all of this I made it a priority to come back to Haiti and work in clinics. The people of Haiti are so amazing and helping them is something I am very passionate about. While on this trip we helped the people of Haiti, but Haiti helped me find my passion and purpose.

C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

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.

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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 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 – Dec. 8, 10, 18, 22 & 29, Jan. 12, 14, 15 & 26; contact Lucretia Scammahorn at 317299-9472 for details. Prepare Dinner – Dec. 21 & 23; Jan 27 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.

Becca Young. “I walk out 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 to volunteer for after-school tutoring (3:30 - 4:30PM)

Meet Our Team

ELEMENTARY TUTORS OFFER HELP ON SCHOOL DAYS W/‘SMALL THINGS’

REV. JAMALYN PEIGH WILLIAMSON Pastor of Outreach Ministries

Fox Hill | 802 Fox Hill Dr. • Greenbriar | 8201 Ditch Rd. Last year, dozens of children lit up when St. Luke’s 70 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 D E C 2 0 1 5/ J A N 2 0 1 6

MARY HACH Outreach Coordinator

Hang an ornament.

Make a difference.

Dawn & Mark Dinwiddie got the whole family involved in last year’s Angel Tree Christmas giving project at St. Luke’s. Even Mary, Jane & Ellie got into the spirit of the season. Learn more about how your family can help other families. Email: outreach@stlukesumc.com

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Giving Opportunities Remain • Donate $100 to buy a specialty Kroger Gift Card • Purchase a “Home Essentials” Basket ($60) • Sponsor a person/family by donating money • Donate money for United Christmas Service Vouchers • Assist families shopping on Dec. 20 For more information email outreach@stlukesumc.com

C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

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

Euchre • Monthly, 3rd Saturday • 6:45PM • Parlor

Jan. 5 & 19 • 9:30-11:30AM • Parlor

This group provides great fellowship opportunities for the 40plus set. Contact Adra Wheeler 846-3404 for more information.

Moms with young children are invited for fellowship, service & spiritual growth. Kick off the New Year by meeting with Eve Circle on to hear Amy Barnes on the topic “Ready for a Change?”. We’ll also get organized with Rachel Whiteaker on Jan. 19. First and third Tuesdays each month. Reserve child care in advance or learn more: evecircle@yahoo.com.

UMW - NEW LIFE CIRCLE 16

Dec. 15, 6:30PM | Jan. 19, 7PM • Spiritual Life Center In December, bring your favorite dish and a wrapped $5 gift for “Christmas Memories” pitch-in dinner and gift exchange. Please bring a photo of a special Christmas memory. This is great night to Invite a friend.

UMW READING GROUP Jan. 25 • 7 - 8:30PM • Parlor

In January, Dr. Mary Rudy, inspirational speaker and author, will guide us to uncover our hopes & wishes for ourselves and for our circle. Come celebrate a new beginning for 2016.

We'll explore end-of-life issues this month, reading Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End by Atul Gawande together with Knocking on Heaven's Door: The Path to a Better Death by Katy Butler. Contact: Jennifer Todd, jtoddosu@aol.com

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.

CO-ED VOLLEYBALL

UMW - MARY MAGDALENE CIRCLE Mary Magdalene Circle enjoyed an 11:30AM Tea in Serenity Tea Room in Zionsville for its Dec. 9 gathering. The group will not meet in January.

Most Mondays • 6:30PM • Great Hall • $25 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.

D E C 2 0 1 5/ J A N 2 0 1 6

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

FACING GRIEF IN THE HOLIDAYS

Meet Our Team

Grieving the loss of a loved one is a deep and difficult challenge at any time. But the holiday season can magnify your sense of loss and mourning. Family gatherings and seasonal events can be painful reminders of the absence of a loved one. If you are mourning a loss of a loved one this year, here are some important things to keep in mind.

REV. KIM KING Pastor Care Ministry

A C C E P T YO U R F E E L I N G S , W H AT E V E R T H E Y M I G H T B E .

MARY KATHERINE SCHNITZ Director Stephen Ministry

C A L L O N YO U R FA M I LY & F R I E N D S .

P L A N A H E A D. S C A L E B A C K .

G I V E . D O S O M E T H I N G D I F F E R E N T.

ADRA WHEELER Coordinator Elder Ministry

S K I P I T. D O O N LY W H AT F E E L S R I G H T BETTY BRANDT Director Spiritual Life Center

CARE & SUPPORT • Ongoing Family Support: Family Addiction - 2nd Weds. Monthly • 6:30PM

Main Office Conference Room

SARAH CLAPP Administrative Assistant

Chronic Illness: 3rd Mon. • 6:30PM • Rm. 101 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. • 1PM • Luke’s Lodge

HEALTH CARE • Ongoing Blood Drive: Jan. 10 • 8AM - 1PM • Great Hall Blood Pressure Screens: Dec. 13/Jan. 10 • 8AM - Noon • Main Office Contact Sarah Clapp, clapps@stlukesumc.com for details.

Stephen Ministry: One-to-one Christian friendship; by appointment Contact Sarah Clapp, clapps@stlukesumc.com for details.

C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

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SPIRITUAL LIFE CENTER

mind. body. spirit.

When you live in God, your day begins when you lose yourself long enough for God to find you.

- Barbara Brown Taylor

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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 • $8 • Ongoing Mondays • 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.

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WISDOM & THEOLOGY OF NEWELL

SOULFUL BREATHWORK

Dec. 13 & 20 • 11AM–Noon • Spiritual Life Center

2nd Tuesdays starts Jan. 12 • N103/104 • $25/class New Students: 10:45AM | Others: 11AM - 12:15PM

Celtic poet, peacemaker, and scholar John Philip Newell writes of the sacredness of being, the of-Godness that is at the heart of our lives and all life. Short video clips and discussion of his theology is led by Betty Brandt.

NEW YEAR’S LABYRINTH WALK Dec. 31 • 5-7PM • Fellowship Hall Welcome the New Year with a time of reflection and gratitude.

Hostess will greet you, introduce the labyrinth and answer questions. Church main entrance access only.

RESTORATIVE YOGA Thursdays, starting Jan. 7 • 5:30-6:45PM • N103 • $10

An excellent tool for healing and self-discovery, this active, conscious breathing practice often leads to a more integrated and authentic experience of self and increased compassion toward self and others. Work done lying on the floor. Please bring a yoga mat, blanket and pillow. Led by Lynn Tisza. No registration.

BHAGAVAD GITA Jan. 12, 19 & 26 • 6:30 - 8PM • C124 Gandi referred to the “Gita” as his “spiritual dictionary.” What can Christians learn from this well known Hindu scripture to deepen the Christian faith journey? Registration requested, no fee.

PRAY WITHOUT CEASING

Begin in a tranquil candlelit class with gently stretching and breathing exercises. End with guided meditation. Bring a yoga mat, and any props for comfort. Led by Beth Fried, RYT-200

Wednesdays • Jan 13 - April 27 • Luke’s Lodge • 6:30 - 7:30PM

SOCIAL JUSTICE

Learn new prayer forms, develop a personal prayer practice and pray for other group members. Led by Roger Frick. Registration requested, no fee.

Sundays • Jan. 10 - Feb 14 • 10:45AM - Noon - 4PM • Spiritual Life Center Learn the United Methodist Church’s official position on social justice issues and how the church and its members respond to legislation at the local, state and national levels. Discuss strategies for communication with elected officials from a faith-based perspective. Led by Rev. Dan Gangler. No registration or fee.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE Jan. 16 • 1 - 4PM • Spiritual Life Center How do you reconcile what you most desire with what you feel God is calling you to do? Expect meaningful interaction led by Amy Barnes, MBA, MA, LMHC. Registration requested, no fee.

ST. LUKE’S AT THE MOVIES

E-WASTE MOVED TO BACK LOT Please bring all e-waste (anything with a cord) to the west end of the designated “trailer” in the back parking lot for monthly pickup.

No toxic materials such as paint or CLF light bulbs. Please provide $10 for each CPT monitor or TV. Find envelopes inside the trailer.

Drop donations at Main Office marked for pick up by Betty Brandt.

Jan. 22 • 7 - 9PM • Parlor • Dessert “Finding Joe,” takes us on the ultimate hero's journey. As you slay dragons and uncover treasures, you just may find that the holy grail you see is within reach.

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FEATURE STORY ADULT DISCIPLESHIP

adults

Lenten Small Groups: What! Already?

By Rev. Eric Burton-Krieger Pastor of Adult Discipleship

Ash Wednesday is Feb. 10! Lent is almost upon us, bringing a great opportunity to St. Luke’s: Lenten Small Groups.

We’re serious that God’s way of transforming our world is through people gathered in community. So we have small groups to connect 20

you to people who can become friends who encourage your faith and serve with you to make a difference.

WHY JOIN A LENTEN SMALL GROUP?

HOW DO I JOIN A SMALL GROUP?

WHAT’S THE COMMITMENT?

St. Luke’s can feel like a big place – a group gives you folks you know who are invested in you.

Sign up online beginning in January at stlukesumc.com – or – if the website confounds you, come to the gathering area outside of the Sanctuary on Sundays for assistance.

Participate in as many of these opportunities as possible:

Choose from dozens of groups based on a location and time that works for you.

Attend Sunday Worship Feb. 14 through Easter Sunday, March 27.

Some groups have a particular affinity (young adults, parents with children, etc.) or include a childcare option to make sure that is not a barrier to participation.

Meet once each week (5 weeks) of Lent with your small group for conversation around each week’s worship focus.

Take part in conversations that matter and grow in your faith by reflecting on living the sermon each week.

Make a difference in our community by serving with your group.

You do not need to be a member of the church to participate!

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Meet your group host after the Ash Wednesday Service, Feb. 10, 7PM.

Serve with your small group in one of the designated Service Projects.

Celebrate with other groups at a closing meal and worship service, Thursday, March 24 at St. Luke’s.

ADULT DISCIPLESHIP

“... small groups connect you to people who can encourage your faith and serve with you to make a difference ...”

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INTERESTED IN HOSTING? If you’re interested in hosting a group (it can include people you already know and/or folks new to you) then contact Rev. Eric Burton-Krieger

A FEW OTHER THINGS TO KNOW…

ration is to listen to the sermon each week and to be willing to join in conversation.

Hosts - Each group has a host who opens their home or agrees to help facilitate a conversation on campus, at a coffee shop or at locations around the city.

After Five Weeks – We hope that many of our groups will choose to continue for another five weeks, thought this is totally up to you. You’re not committed beyond Easter.

Preparation - You don’t need to know anything about the Bible or have been in a group before to take part. The only prepa-

bke@stlukesumc.com 317. 846.3404 x312

C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

We’ll provide training, weekly discussion guides, and lots of encouragement.

FEATURE STORY ADULT DISCIPLESHIP

Adult Classes, Groups & Learning Opportunities Our January classes are a mix of traditional offerings with a few new things sprinkled in. Because Lent is early this year (Feb. 10) we’ll have more offerings after our Lenten Small Groups.

TO REGISTER: Visit stlukesumc.com

We have had between 500 and 700 people participating in these small groups in the past. For many families with children, a Lenten Small Group is my encouragement as the first step you take. Read about Lenten Groups on the previous page.

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QUESTIONS? Questions about any of our adult discipleship classes? Contact adults@stlukesumc.com

REGISTRATION Some opportunities require pre-registration. This information helps us be sure to have enough materials on hand. In most cases, registration is online at stlukesumc.com. The indicates classes that require registration.

REV. ERIC BURTONKRIEGER

ICON KEY = women

Meet Our Team

= men

= childcare

= register

Pastor of Adult Discipleship burtonkriegere@stlukesumc.com

PASTOR’S BOOK STUDY • Ongoing Wednesdays, resuming Jan. 20 • 10-11:30AM • Parlor Pastor Rob Fuquay Rotating staff members lead discussions on books through the year, including Pastor Rob Fuquay, who leads a study on the book, Making Sense of the Bible: Rediscovering the Power of Scripture Today by Adam Hamilton beginning Jan. 20. Contact Judi Hosfeld at judiandmark@att.net for more information. New people are welcome!

D E C 2 0 1 5/ J A N 2 0 1 6

LAURA MARINE Administrative Assistant

marinel@stlukesumc.com

ADULT DISCIPLESHIP

EMPTY NESTERS • Ongoing Sundays • 10:30 - 11:30AM • Parlor This Sunday school class/social group started when participants were new empty nesters. They continue to face post-empty-nest challenges together, and welcome others to morning studies and other events. Contact Patty Davis, quiltingpmd@sbcglobal.net

SERMON DISCUSSION CLASS • Ongoing Sundays • 10:45AM - Noon • Rm E105 Discuss the sermon after attending the 8 or 9:15AM Service. Walk ins are welcome. Led by Craig Overmyer and Gary Chambers.

CHRISTIAN CHAT • Ongoing 2nd & 4th Mondays • 10 - 11:30AM • Spiritual Life Center Drop in for interesting discussions about Christian topics and to enjoy fellowship in this class designed for busy women. Join as your schedule permits, and come late or leave early as needed. Contact Sharon Kriech, christianchatwomen@gmail.com.

TUESDAY WOMEN’S BOOK STUDY - RSVPers • Ongoing Every other Tuesday beginning Jan. 5 • 9:30 - 11AM • Luke's Lodge God invites us to listen, to learn, to grow, to be transformed. How we RSVP to God’s invitations is up to us. Come nourish your soul through fellowship, connection, sharing and deep listening with this group of women. Contact Bev Gallagher, bevg911@indy.rr.com.

CAFE CONVERSATIONS • Ongoing Wednesdays • 9:30 - 11AM • E105 In December, join us for discussion of A Testament of Devotion by Thomas Kelly, Quaker teacher. In January, we read, A Path Appears: Transforming Lives, Creating Opportunity by Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn. Contact Dr. Marion Miller at millerm@stlukesumc.com.

WEDNESDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY • Ongoing Wednesdays • Resumes Jan. 6 • 10:30 - 11:30AM • Forum at the Crossing An off-site senior adult Bible Study. Contact Adra Wheeler, wheelera@stlukesumc.com

THURSDAY AFTERNOON BOOK STUDY • Ongoing Thursdays • 1 - 2:30PM • Parlor Read and discuss a diverse selection of literature. January’s selection is “All the Light You Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr. Contact Phyllis Bybee, bpbybee@sbcglobal.net for more information. No registration needed.

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FEATURE STORY ADULT DISCIPLESHIP: THURSDAY CONNECTION

Women of all ages are invited to meet in the St. Luke’s Parlor at 9:15AM each Thursday for coffee and fellowship. Groups will move into classes from 9:30-10:45AM, descriptions are below.

Please sign up for free childcare during registration.

Register online at stlukesumc.com. Books are available in the Connections Bookstore.

HOODWINKED Thursdays • Jan. 14 - Feb. 11 • 9:30 - 10:45AM • E212 Moms have been hoodwinked—tricked into believing lies that keep them from not only enjoying motherhood, but forging friendships with other moms who might tackle the tasks of motherhood differently. Replace the lies with the truth of what God says in the Bible about mothering. This study helps moms to acquire practical tools to help them form new and improved thought patterns and healthy behaviors. Contact Heather Hilbert for more information at hilberth@stlukesumc.com. Registration encouraged.

MADE TO CRAVE: SATISFYING YOUR DEEPEST DESIRE W/GOD, NOT FOOD 24

Thursdays • Jan. 14 - Feb. 25 • 9:30 - 10:45AM • E213 Join other women on a journey with author Lysa TerKeurst as you explore your relationship with God and how that shapes our choices and relationships with everything around us - food included. Contact Kelli Witte, wittek@stlukesumc.com. Registration encouraged.

WOMEN’S PRAYER STUDY Thursdays • Jan. 14 - Feb. 11 • 9:30 - 10:45AM • Parlor Join women of all ages for a scripture study on prayer. What are some of the lessons we might learn from Jesus’ prayer life? Conversation will focus on Max Lucado’s book, Before Amen. Contact Debra Peek, peekd@stlukesumc.com.

MOMS OF YOUNG CHILDREN Thursdays • Jan. 14 - Feb. 11 • 9:30AM - 10:45AM • Spiritual Life Center This friendly group of mothers with younger children meet to discuss the sermon from the previous Sunday.

Contact: Lindsey Rabinowitch, lindseyrab@hotmail.com.

DISCIPLE I FAST TRACK - THE NEW TESTAMENT Thursdays • Jan. 7 - Mar. 31 • 9:30 - 10:45AM • N101/102 Disciple I classes have spent the fall studying the Old Testament but if you’re ready to dive in we’d love to have you. Susan Fuquay will guide you through the New Testament over 12 weeks this spring. 20-30 minutes of daily reading are involved but no prior Bible knowledge is needed. Contact Laura Marine at marinel@stlukesumc.com to register and for more information.

D E C 2 0 1 5/ J A N 2 0 1 6

ADULT DISCIPLESHIP: D I S C I P L E FA S T T R A C K

Disciple Fast Track: Bible Study for Busy Lives Disciple Fast Track is a 24-week, 75-minute class that offers an overview of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. No previous Bible knowledge is required. If you’d like to join for the New Testament starting in January please contact Laura Marine at marinel@stlukesumc.com. You’ll need a Study Manual and Study Bible which can be purchased in the bookstore. There are 20-30 minutes of daily reading involved. Scholarships are available to help with costs. Classes reconvene the week of January 3rd and end the week of March 20th (Holy Week.) See below for class days and times.

DISCIPLE I FAST TRACK - BECOMING DISCIPLES THROUGH BIBLE STUDY Sundays • 9:30 - 10:45AM • Jeff Aldridge • E213

JEFF ALDRIDGE

Sundays • 10:45AM - Noon • Stephen Hoskins • N101/102 Sundays, Jan. 17 - June 26 • 4 - 5:15PM • Old & New Testaments • Leader TBD

STEPHEN HOSKINS

Tuesdays (Young Adults) • 6:30-8PM • Mindie Moore • Luke’s Lodge MINDIE MOORE

Wednesdays • 6:30-7:45PM • Pastor Eric Burton-Krieger • N103/104 ERIC BURTON-KRIEGER

Thursdays • 9:30-10:45AM • Susan Fuquay • N101/102 SUSAN FUQUAY

Thursdays • 11:45-1PM • Susan Fuquay • N101/102 C O N N E C T @ S T. L U K E ’ S

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ALL-CHURCH LUNCHEON You're invited to meet St. Luke’s pastors and learn more about the church.

Sunday • Jan. 17 Noon • Fellowship Hall/Parlor

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. Childcare can be arranged as needed.

Sun., Jan. 31 Noon - 3PM • Luke’s Lodge

Register at stlukesumc.com, or call 317-846-3404 x308

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.

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