June/July 2015 Connections @St. Luke's

Get a Carwash & Try to Win a Big Green Egg On Bring-Dad-to-Church Day June 21! p.19

A Guide to the Season Ahead: June/July 2015

Servant Day p.7 Reunion With A Firefly: Eat, Pray, Love author to introduce Indianapolis writer & friend in special St. Luke’s appearance, p.20

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Youth in MIssion Youth Young/Emerging Adults Servant Day/Outreach Adult Discipleship Spiritual Life/Care Survey Results Fellowship/UMW

June/July 2015 Connections@ St.Luke’s: a publication of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church 100 W. 86th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 317-846-3404 www.stlukesumc.com A PDF version of Connections is available at www.stlukesumc.com.

The submission deadline for the August/September Connections@ St.Luke’s is June 27

Preschool/Children Reunion with a Firefly

back cover New Here?

Hours

St. Luke’s office is open 8:30AM-5PM Monday-Friday. 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 you can be reached by the on-call pastor.

Frequent Needs...........................Name, Extension

New Here............................................................ Terri Coe, 308 Adult Class Registration...................................... Laura Marine, 332 Childcare Needs for Meetings/Events................ Kristi Chamberlain, 307 Member Care/Death/Hospitalization Stephen Ministry Request.................................. Mary Katherine Schnitz, 365 Membership/Births/Address/Phone Change..... Sarah Clapp, 343 Special Events/Room Reservation...................... Heather Backus, 325 Weddings............................................................ Allison Flickinger, 370 Baptisms............................................................. Kristi Chamberlain, 307 Pledge Balance/Information............................... Faina Kleyner, 313 Oasis Bookstore.................................................. Kelly Witte, 350 Communication/Marketing Support.................. Patricia Case, 328 Early Childhood Weekday Program.................... Mollie Smith, 844-3399 The Garden......................................................... Judy Tolley, 310

Email

Staff email is last name followed by first initial, followed by @stlukesumc. com, for example: casep@stlukesumc.com

The Garden is 20 – and Still Growing!

Congratulations to The Garden. After

20 years as an offshoot of St. Luke’s UMC, Gardeners will launch as a sister congregation with new pastoral leadership next fall.

We celebrate two decades of service by Founding Pastor Dr. Linda McCoy. Linda’s vision to bring an alternative worship style to those who felt out of place in church helped her grow this worshiping community to roughly 400 people. The congregation remains part of St. Luke’s until her retirement at the end of September.

In October, Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes is to begin formal service as senior pastor of The Garden. Carolyn began her ministry at St. Luke’s in Christian Education, where she served as Children’s Music and Arts Director in the mid-90s.

Ordained in 1998 while on staff here, in 2007 she left St. Luke’s to accept a call to ministry at Avon Christian Church, where she serves as Senior Pastor of that growing Disciples congregation.

It’s a Garden Party Sunday, Sept. 13, Noon, Great Hall Help The Garden celebrate 20 Years. Meet and make new Garden friends. Bring a covered dish to share and join others.

Birthday cake, drinks and paper products will be provided. Contact Judy Tolley for more information: tolleyj@stlukesumc.com.

1 Many Worship Styles.

One Community.

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. To receive e-devotions related to Sunday’s sermon – sign up for Pastor Rob’s Rev-elation e-newsletter: www.stlukesumc.com/e-newsletters. (Select Pastor’s Message)

Sermons at St. Luke’s

Traditional @8, 9:15 & 11AM

8, 9:15AM in the Sanctuary and 11AM in Robertson Chapel with Rev. Rob Fuquay, Senior Pastor – These services feature relevant messages by our senior pastor, while engaging worshipers in a robust musical experience. Organ, Chancel Choir, and on the third Sunday of each month, a full Orchestra lift hearts and minds in praise of God. The style of liturgy invites the worshiper into a setting that includes sacraments of the church in a time-honored, yet forward-looking way.

Contemporary @11AM 11AM in the Sanctuary with Rev. Rob Fuquay, Senior Pastor – St. Luke’s includes in its family of worship styles a contemporary service on Sunday mornings in the Sanctuary. It features relevant messages by our senior pastor along with amazing musical talent and a more relaxed, interactive environment.

Stories from Genesis through July 26

Learn What ancient stories from genesis have to do with your faith journey TODAY

Later @St. Luke’s - 6PM

6PM in Robertson Chapel with Dr. Marion Miller – Experience a multi-faceted worship service that draws on cultural expressions of spirituals, Gospel, hymns and jazz music; featuring Later Band and Vocals, and a thought-provoking message. Communion is served every Sunday. Light refreshments before and after worship.

The Garden @8:45 & 10AM 8:45 & 10AM at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre with Dr. Linda McCoy – The Garden is a satellite ministry of St. Luke’s providing non-traditional worship in a comfortable setting for those who might seek a more casual secular approach to traditional church. Music is provided by The Good Earth Band. This spiritual experience is hosted off campus at 9301 N. Michigan Rd., Indianapolis.

Taizé @5PM

5-5:45PM Third Sunday of each month, by the baptismal font in the Sanctuary, with musical community and Rev. Kim King – This service of peace and candlelight offers a contemplative style of worship. Silence, scriptures, prayer and music combine to engage worshipers in a spiritual experience.

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June/July May 2014 2015 Connections@St. Luke’s

Why Summer Service Matters Summer time is filled with mission opportunities and ways for teens to be involved. Last summer more than 170 teens served with Summer Splash, Mission Trips and the church-wide Service Day. St. Luke’s has supported our teens in very special ways during this busy time with prayer, encouragement and financial support through fundraisers.

Our team sees summer time as a transformational time when teens live out their faith. As we enter this summer, here are a few stories of transformation from our teens.

Summer 2015 Mission Trips Haiti: June 20-28 (Incoming 11th graders and up) Puerto Rico: July 18-26 (Incoming 9th graders and up) West Virginia: July 19-24 (Incoming 7th graders and up) Local Mission Trip: July 30-Aug 1 (Incoming 7th graders through graduates)

‘Just the beginning of my Christian life…’

The local mission trip was a point in my life where I knew I loved being a member of St. Luke’s. After serving locally I felt like something clicked and just gave me a feeling that I knew Jesus. At the same time, I realize that this is just the beginning of my journey in my Christian life. The beginning of the local mission trip was rough because when we were split into groups I wasn’t with my two greatest friends. But when we were preparing to leave, I realized: I didn’t sign up for this mission trip for friends. I did this to help people in need. It was a great opportunity to grow in my faith and after every place I served I just kept on growing more confident about why I was serving. We started at a food shelter near downtown and followed that by going to Wheeler Mission. Whether it was cleaning bathrooms, working in a laundry room, or at a food shelter, I was stretched! At the end of the mission trip I was so happy that I chose to do it! I encourage you to think about serving as well!

Ryan Tilev • 8th Grade

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‘Friends in other countries…’

I have been on many mission trips including Montana, Peru, South America and right here at home. My favorite mission trip so far was to Peru.

Throughout the week, we walked two miles to and from the village each day and spent around seven hours building a church – from laying the foundation to painting it – and playing with the local kids. We brought “gently-used” shoes, school supplies, and some fun little things (bracelets, soccer balls, etc.) and handed them out to families whose kids needed them. It felt so great seeing the faces of the parents and children when they got the new supplies.

In addition to helping others, we also get to make new and strengthen existing friendships. I’ve made some really good friends through these mission trips, not just from my church, but other states and countries too. Going on a mission trip creates a feeling that is unexplainable. It’s just so great knowing that you helped someone with their education, helped them get closer to their faith, helped them with their general needs, or just put a smile on their face. This year I’m heading to Puerto Rico. I can’t wait for the many mission trips to come!”

Bailey Middaugh • Sophomore

‘Wonders of the world…’

One of my greatest mission trip experiences took place in Peru, South America with St. Luke’s senior high youth and our leaders. We took three planes and two buses to get to the village of Pucallpa, then boarded a boat on the Ucayali River that would be our living quarters for the week that floated two more hours until we were moored along the shore. Each morning we would wake up to a Peruvian breakfast, prepare our lunches for the day including plenty of water, then hike a couple miles through the hot Peruvian rain forest. Men from the village worked alongside our leaders as together we built a church from the ground up. Even though it was nearly impossible to communicate verbally with the villagers, that didn’t hold any of us back from making friends and building relationships. After what seemed like a short week, we said goodbye to the kids and people of the village. We spent another few days in the city of Cusco, and visited Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This trip as a whole was one of the most amazing and rewarding trips I have ever taken.

Kara Beer • College Student

‘I was blessed…’

I was blessed with the opportunity to accompany my peers on a mission trip over the summer of 2013. The mission trip was life changing. We built a church in a village on a tributary of the Amazon River! I met lots of people on the trip, some from Peru with whom I still keep in contact!

Sam Beer • Junior

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Youth

Kevin Davis, Director of Youth Ministry, davisk@stlukesumc. com; 846-3404 x326

Our Mission: To welcome all youth and families into loving, Christ-centered relationships where they can get in tune with God’s amazing love and be empowered to transform the world! Register for any event at www.stlukesumc.com/youth.

Events/Activities

Sunday Morning

Middle School Mayhem is almost here! There are still openings available, so sign up at stlukesumc. com/youth today! The cost for the week-long morning session is $25. The extended-day option is $50 for the week. For more information and to sign up, go to stlukesumc.com/youth.

Volunteers contact Heather Campbell, campbellh@ stlukesumc.com

June/July May 2014 2015 Connections@St. Luke’s

Mindie Moore, Associate Director of Emerging Adults, Moorem@ stlukesumc.com, 84603404, x369 Heather Campbell, Associate Director of Youth Ministry, campbellh@ stlukesumc.com, 846-3404 x346 Colleen Baumgartner, Administrative Assistant, baumgartnerc@ stlukesumc.com.

846-3404 x323

The Modge (incoming 5th-7th Grade)

9:15-10:30AM & 11AM-Noon @ The Modge (Modular building near Door 8) The Modge is located between the main church building and Luke’s Lodge. Come early at 9AM for games, snacks, and hangout time! There is a high-energy time of worship, large group teaching, and breakouts into small groups with dedicated teachers.

The Lodge

9:15-10:30AM @ Luke’s Lodge 11AM - Sanctuary Incoming 8th grade through incoming high school seniors meet on Sunday mornings in Luke’s Lodge for student-led worship, a brief message, small group breakouts, experiential learning, and time for hanging out with friends. Come early for game systems, ping pong, foosball, air hockey and pool.

Whether you’re already plugged in or new to high school youth activities, this is the place to connect!

Bring friends!

Middle School Mayhem for incoming 5th through 7th grades June 15-19

Incoming 8th through 12th grades can volunteer at Summer Splash or Middle School Mayhem by signing up at stlukesumc.com.

Youth Car Wash June 21, 8AM-1PM

Join us for our annual Father’s Day Car Wash!

Youth will clean cars while their owners are in worship or via our convenient drive-through line.

Fun, fellowship and funding! All donations go to lower the cost of our Summer Mission trips

Junior High Summer Event for incoming 5th – 8th Graders

Our Junior High Summer Intern, Zach, will be creating an awesome event on July 10 from 6-9PM! Stay tuned for more information and save the date!

Emerging Adults

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Summer Time to Connect Summer is an exciting time for Emerging Adult Ministries!

We get to welcome our College Students home, spend time together outside, and even have a one-day retreat planned to Turkey Run! If you are a college student home for the summer, are a graduating senior heading into the next step of life, or are a 20-something new to Indy, YOU are welcome!

Turkey Run Day Retreat

Saturday, July 18 Summer is an awesome time to get away from the city and spend some time outside! You can spend the day hiking, canoeing, or tubing. It’s your choice! For more info and to sign up, contact: Mindie Moore, moorem@stlukesumc.com

Emerging Adult Connection Groups St. Luke’s is a big church, so the best way to make deep friendships is to commit to a small group! For more information on our young adult small group offerings, contact Mindie Moore by email: moorem@stlukesumc.com.

College Bible Study Wednesdays • May 20-Aug. 5 • 7pm • Zack & Mindie Moore’s home Enjoy fellowship and explore how scripture intersects everyday life!

Come when you can. Contact: moorem@stlukesumc.com.

VolleyBall

Emerging Adults Gather for Monthly Dinner & Worship Every 3rd Friday • 6:30PM • 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. Join us June 19. We’ll take a break in July and resume August 21.

@LiveInTuneYM

stlukesumc.com/youth

Mondays, 8:30-9:30PM, St. Luke’s Gym (Great Hall). Unwind after a long day with a round of volleyball with friends. Contact: Kelly Scott scottk@stlukesumc.com.

Post-College Women’s Group Tuesdays • 6PM. This group of women meets weekly for community and growing together in faith! Contact: moorem@stlukesumc.com.

Young Adult Couples, Take Note!

Every Tuesday night at 7PM • Zack and Mindie Moore’s home (contact Mindie for the address). Contact: moorem@stlukesumc.com

Facebook Groups Check out our Facebook groups: “St. Lukes UMC - College Students” or “St. Luke’s UMC - Young Adult Ministries” to stay updated on all events and to connect with other members.

Join our Facebook groups!

@liveintunejh and @liveintunehs

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June/July May 2014 2015 Connections@St. Luke’s Connections@St.Luke’s

Outreach LOCAL Opportunities

Give a Kid a Chance. Tutor.

Fox Hill Elementary School Teachers are available and Butler University students train tutors on the curriculum. Contact Tom Lange, Lion Catchers, at tom.c.lange@gmail.com to help with summer tutoring at Creekwood Apartments.

East 10th Street UMC Children & Youth Center Outreach of the Month - June/July

Red Envelope Campaign During June and July, you will have the opportunity to “Fill an Envelope and touch a life.” On Sundays, we will invite you to visit the table in the Narthex and choose an envelope displaying an amount you would like to give to ministry outreach organizations we support. ($1 - $200.) Fill your envelope with the amount marked on it, then turn it back in.

Do you work downtown and wish make a difference in child’s life? The East 10th United Methodist Children and Youth Center, which serves more than 120 children in its daycare and after-school programs, is looking for volunteers who can share an hour reading to preschool children or helping children in the after-school program with their homework on afternoons, 4:30-5:30PM. Please email Cathy Neal at cbneal@gmail.com or call 317-417-9099 for more information.

You’ll support these outreach efforts of St. Luke’s: • Missionaries in Fondwa, Haiti - Chris and Natalie Wallace, who moved to this nation from Indianapolis, as members of our congregation.

• Africa University - where more than 90% of students enrolled receive financial aid. The mission of Africa University is to provide quality education within a Pan-African context through which persons can acquire general and professional knowledge and skills, grow in spiritual maturity, develop sound moral values, ethics and leadership qualities.

• Habitat for Humanity - Sarah Tate is a single mother of 3-yearold twins Autumn & Summer. Both little girls have special needs, and so the family will require a handicap accessible home. St. Luke’s will partner with Habitat for Humanity to create the right size and type of space for this family.

• Preschool Scholarships - Our scholarships help children whose families might otherwise not be able to afford quality preschool opportunities. Teachers report this program is wildly successful with students thriving in the St. Luke’s environment.

• Back-to-School Extravaganza - We’ll treat upwards of 1,000 youth and children to all the gear they need to start the school year with confidence.

Fletcher Place Community Center Volunteering

Be part of some of the most significant outreach efforts of St. Luke’s with your gifts to the Red Envelope Campaign!

Feed Everyone

Help break the cycle of poverty for Fletcher Place Community Center clients. Serve breakfast or dinner at Fletcher Place Community Center. Breakfast dates are: June 9, 11, 19, 23, 30; July 9, 14, 17, 28;Dinner dates are: June 15 & 24; July 20 & 22. Breakfast volunteers contact Lucretia Scammahorn, 317-2999472. Dinner volunteers, visit www.signupgenius. com/go/4090d44aeac2ea46-fletcher or look on the Fletcher Place Board in the Communications Center of the Main Office. Questions? Donations? Contact outreach@stlukesumc.com Feed Everyone needs volunteers to take unsold food from area grocery stores to Indianapolis shelters on Tuesdays, Saturdays or Sundays. Contact: Lori Chambers lochambers@sbcglobal.net

Servant Day

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June/July 2015 Connections@St. Luke’s

St. Luke’s Servant Day Saturday, July 25 Join hundreds of St. Luke’s volunteers on Saturday, July 25, for a day that leaves no doubt that this congregation cares about its neighbors! We’ll gather in the morning for breakfast, then disperse to serve our neighboring community at a variety of sites.

To sign up online, visit stlukesumc.com and follow the links to Servant Day

Servant Day volunteers are encouraged to bring an item(s) to donate to the Crooked Creek Food Pantry. Suggested items for donations include:

STEP 1: Select a project and sign up. (Online or on Sunday mornings in June and July in the Narthex or West Passageway.)

•

•

Hygiene Items: Paper Towels, toilet tissue, toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, laundry detergent, dishwashing detergent, or deodorant.

Food Items: Rice, canned fruit (especially pineapple, mandarin oranges, or peaches), Chunky soups, canned beans, or popcorn. Baby items: Formula and Diapers Items can be put in designated bins in front of Great Hall and the Sanctuary.

8:00 - 8:45AM 8:45 - 9:00AM 9:00 - 1:00PM

Breakfast - Great Hall “Send-Off” - Sanctuary On Site at Your Project

STEP 2: Your project team leader will share specific information about your project, including directions to your work site.

STEP 3: Show up at 8AM on July 25 for breakfast (courtesy of the Stephen Ministers) and be part of a Volunteer Send Off in Great Hall. A free-will offering at breakfast will support St. Luke’s Benevolent Fund.

STEP 4: Depart for your designated site and spend the day making your life better by helping others!

Questions? Contact Marsha Reynolds (marshafoleyreynolds@gmail.com) or Fatima Rich (fatimarich@yahoo.com).

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Servant Day Project Descriptions Projects marked with this symbol are deemed “family friendly” and would welcome younger children. Individual project leaders can offer additional guidance regarding the participation of children for each project.

Arthur Jordan YMCA

Location: 8400 Westfield Boulevard Team Leader: Chuck Blessing Volunteers are needed at the Jordan YMCA to assist with a variety of indoor and outdoor clean up, such as in the camp and the pre-school areas.

The team leader will provide more specifics prior to Servant Day, including any tools or supplies volunteers should bring. This project can only take 10-12 volunteers.

Crooked Creek Food Pantry

Location: 6940 N. Michigan Road Team Leader: Maria Blake (mariawblake@yahoo.com) St. Luke’s has partnered with Dow AgroSciences, Gleaners Food Bank, and Eskenazi Health CenterPecar to establish Crooked Creek Food Pantry.

The pantry serves individuals from most of Pike Township and the westernmost portion of Washington Township. On Servant Day, volunteers will help transport donated items from the church to the food pantry, clean and organize storage

areas, and clean and restock the pantry shopping area. Volunteers may want to bring rubber gloves, cleaning products, and paper towels. Please wear close toed shoes. The work will involve bending, stooping, and lifting up to 25 pounds. Volunteers must be 14 years or older.

East Tenth Street UMC Youth and Children Center

Location: 2327 East 10th St. Team Leader: Cathy Bonser-Neal (cbneal@gmail.com) The mission of the East Tenth Street United Methodist Children and Youth Center is to provide a safe place where the spiritual, emotional, educational, and physical needs of children, youth, and their families are responded to in a holistic approach. Volunteers will work on a variety of indoor and outdoor tasks, including landscaping work around the building and playground area, indoor beautification projects, and administrative work for the classrooms. St. Luke’s Young Adults group is a sponsor of this project.

Fox Hill Elementary School

Location: 802 Fox Hill Drive (At the Intersection of Fox Hill Drive and Hoover Road) Team Leaders: Sarah Smith (sarah.gamber@gmail.com) This project will again help Fox Hill Elementary School prepare for the new school year. Volunteers will work inside and out during the morning performing tasks such as trimming bushes, weeding, planting, mulching, cleaning classrooms, organizing school supplies, dusting, making copies, and helping teachers set up their classrooms.

Volunteers working outside may wish to bring gloves and garden tools.

The Garden Outreach Project

Location: TBA Team Leader: Lucretia Scammahorn The Garden will again sponsor a project for Servant Day in conjunction with their ongoing outreach

Servant Day efforts. Sign-ups and details for volunteers interested in this project will be coordinated through the Garden.

Glick Neighborhood Center at Crooked Creek

Location: 2990 West 71st Street (Just west of Michigan Road) Team Leader: Brent Harvey (Harvey_Brent@Lilly. com) The Glick Center provides an array of services for the unmet needs of economically disadvantaged households. Volunteers will help clean classrooms, sort and store educational and recreational materials, and help out with some office work.

Outside volunteers will be busy weeding, cleaning the grounds, and cleaning outside windows. There are opportunities for teens and adults. Let us know if you have any physical restrictions. You can bring garden tools, cleaning supplies, or a light toolbox.

Greenbriar Elementary School

Location: 8201 Ditch Road Team Leader: Bill Eckert (wjeckert@aol.com) and Ronnie Bell The project will help make Greenbriar Elementary shine as it prepares for a new school year.

Volunteer jobs will include inside and outside tasks such as trimming bushes, weeding, planting, cleaning classrooms, organizing school supplies, dusting, making copies, and helping teachers set up their classrooms. If you plan to work outside, please bring any yard equipment you can (trimmers, shovels, rakes, etc.).

Habitat for Humanity

Location: St. Luke’s Parking Lot Team Leaders: Dave Duba (energized1@aol.com) and Todd Hockemeyer (tmhockemeyer@gmail.com) St. Luke’s is building another Habitat for Humanity home. You can help! Join us on Servant Day as we construct the wall frames for the house. Your team leader will connect with you prior to Servant Day to let you know what equipment you might need to bring. All volunteers must be 14 years or older.

Previous experience is not necessary.

Indiana Center for Children and Families, Inc.

Location: 1431 North Delaware Team Leader: Sandi French (sfrench@mhai.net) The mission of the Indiana Center for Children

and Families is to support families by improving children’s mental wellness. Its vision is to promote healing and bring hope to the lives of children, adolescents and families affected by child abuse; social, emotional, and behavioral needs; and life challenges. Volunteers will work on a variety of indoor and outdoor projects, including landscaping, painting, and working on a “honey-do” list.

Indiana School for the Blind

Location: 7725 College Avenue Team Leader: Marti and Glenn Hunsucker (drmarti@earthlink.net) Established in 1847, the Indiana School for the Blind is a residential school for Indiana youth (grades Pre-K through 12) who are blind or have low vision. Volunteer jobs at this location will be physical and all outdoors. Much of the work will be cleaning up the grounds near the greenhouse to support the use of the facility by the students.

This project is best suited for adults, teens, and tweens. Please bring gloves, hat, yard tools and water bottle.

Indiana Youth Group

Location: 2943 E. 46th Street Team Leader: Matt Russell (pirsquared@att.net) Indiana Youth Group (IYG) provides safe places and confidential environments where self-identified LGBT and questioning youth are empowered through programs, support services, social and leadership opportunities, and community service.

Volunteers at IYG will help support the youth by assisting with projects such as yard clean up, plus cleaning and reorganizing in the kitchen and basement. Outdoor workers should bring gloves and yard tools.

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Servant Day Military Letter Writing

Location: St. Luke’s (Room TBA) Team Leader: Shari Adams Volunteers will write cards and notes of thanks, encouragement, and news from home to men and women who are serving overseas in the United States military. Children are also welcome to participate in this project by writing notes and/or drawing pictures. Join us as we send a “touch of home” to those who serve in the military to ensure our freedom.

Nora Elementary School

Location: 1000 East 91st Street (Corner of 91st & College Ave.) Team Leaders: Anner Turner (anner_turner@ comcast.net) and Tracy Cudjoe-Taylor (tracy. cudjoe@att.net) Servant Day is again the Saturday before school starts; so we will spend the morning making it shine! Tasks will include work inside and outside performing tasks such as trimming bushes, weeding, planting outside, cleaning classrooms, organizing school supplies, dusting, making copies, and helping teachers set up their classrooms.

Volunteers of all ages are welcome. For those planning to work outside, please bring any yard equipment you can—such as trimmers, shears, shovels, rakes, gloves, wheelbarrows, etc. This project is sponsored by Later @ St. Luke’s.

Outreach, Inc.

Location: 2822 East New York Street Team Leader: Jackie Reed (jsrmolar@sbcglobal.net) Outreach, Inc., serves homeless and at-risk youth in Indianapolis and surrounding areas.

Volunteers will be engaged in tasks such as cleaning windows, bathrooms, kitchen, sitting areas, offices, the Spiritual Life Center, and the Chapel. Volunteers should bring gloves and, if possible, cleaning supplies, paper towels, brooms, dust pans, mops, canister vacuums, etc. This project is appropriate for teens and adults.

SAWS—Ramp Building

Locations: TBA for 2 Projects Team Leader: Jim Hamilton (jhamilton42@ comcast.net) Join the SAWS ministry for one or two of their Servant Day ramp construction projects for wheelchair bound area residents in need of a way to enter and

leave their homes. Project locations will be announced closer to Servant Day. Experienced and new volunteers welcome. Youth 12-years and older are also welcome. Six to eight volunteers are needed for each project. Project leaders will advise volunteers of any equipment to bring. For additional information on SAWs, you may go to www.facebook.com/sawsramps.

St. Luke’s Labyrinth

Location: Behind Luke’s Lodge at St. Luke’s Team Leader: Betty Brandt (brandtb@stlukesumc.com) If you wish to spend your Servant Day volunteer time helping at St. Luke’s, there is an opportunity to provide support to the Spiritual Life Center ministry by assisting with weeding and doing other general maintenance in the daylily labyrinth. Bring gloves, trowels, small clippers, and buckets or containers for weeds and clippings. You may also want to bring a kneeler. All ages are welcome.

St. Luke’s Art Galleries

Location: St. Luke’s Narthex Team Leader: Betty Brandt (brandtb@stlukesumc.com) Spirituality and the Arts is part of the ministry of St. Luke’s Spiritual Life Center. Both the “Identity” and “Vision” Galleries host exhibits of congregation and community artists. Volunteers will be painting Gallery walls, hanging art work in staff offices, and expanding the hanging system for the “Jesus” Gallery. If you have a drill that will go through cement block, please notify team leader Betty Brandt. You may also want to bring your favorite paint brush or extender. Ladders and rollers will be provided. This project is suited for adults.

Spring Mill Elementary School

Location: 8250 Spring Mill Road Team Leader: Sally Akers (sallyakers@yahoo.com) Volunteers will help the school prepare to greet students and their families for the new school year.

Inside tasks might include cleaning classrooms, organizing school supplies, making copies, and helping teachers set up their classrooms.

Volunteers working outside will help trim bushes, weed, and mulch. If you plan to work outside, please bring any yard equipment you can, such as gloves, trimmers, shovels, rakes, wheelbarrows, etc. Volunteers of all ages are welcome. St. Luke’s choir is a sponsor of this project.

Inclusion & Social Justice Locally Grown Pitch in

Aug. 14, 6:30-8PM, Fellowship Hall Our Annual Locally Grown Pitch-in will celebrate all the wonderful fresh produce available at this time of the year. Find something in your own garden, shop at a Farmers’ Market or find a store selling locally grown produce or meat. Make a dish and come enjoy great food, wonderful fellowship and enjoyable entertainment. Sponsored by the Creation Care Ministry of St. Luke’s Inclusion and Social Justice Ministries.

Jesus Fatwah: What Muslims Really Believe

Wednesdays, June 24-July 22, 10-11:30AM, Parlor OR Sundays, June 21-July 26 (omit July 5), 10:45AM-noon, Spiritual Life Center Much of what passes for information about Islam is weed-like disinformation rooted in stereotype and watered by fear. In “The Jesus Fatwah,” 17 Islamic and Christian scholars offer reliable information about what Muslims believe, how they live out their faith, and how we all can be about

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building relationships across the lines of faith. Take advantage of this opportunity to learn about Islam during the month of Ramadan, the Muslim time of fasting and prayer, meet practicing Muslims and expand your worldview. Sponsored by the Interfaith Relationships Committee of the St. Luke’s Inclusion and Social Justice Ministries.

Computer E-waste Collection

June 27, 11AM-2PM, Back parking lot St. Luke’s will host a community computer collection drive and electronic waste recycling event. Donate your no-longer used computer equipment to Wings for West Africa, a local non-profit that refurbishes and ships computers to schools in West Africa. Hard drives are professionally wiped and tax receipts provided. We are also accepting anything with a cord to be safely recycled by RecycleForce Inc. For a complete list of what can be recycled at this event go towww. stlukesumc.com. Tell your friends and neighbors!

A $10 fee is collected for TVs. Cans, bottles and cardboard also accepted.

We have partnered with many organizations and individuals within the surrounding community to provide clothing, books, shoes, food, entertainment and haircuts. Partners include: United Methodist Women, Second Presbyterian Church, Union Chapel United Methodist Church, Northminster Presbyterian Church and Jordan YMCA. These organizations have the same goals to serve the children of Washington Township.

The third annual Back-to-School Extravaganza is set for Sunday, Aug. 2 We will have a one-stop shop where families can find many of the items they need to get the schoolyear off to a great start.

If you are interested in volunteering, donating or finding out more about sponsoring this event, then stop by the West Passage Outreach Post or visit www.stlukesumc.com.

We estimate that it costs $25 per child to equip each child with backpack and school supplies. You can sponsor a child by making a donation of $25 per child, supplying school supplies (list available at Outreach Post in West Passage) or donate on line at stlukesumc.com Volunteers are crucial to make the Back-to-School Extravaganza a success. Volunteers will be needed on Sunday, August 2, as well as on Saturday, August 1, to help set up for the event.

We seek to create a relationship with families who walk through our doors. Many of the families who will attend have also attended Fall Festival, Thanksgiving meals, St. Luke’s Summer Camps, ENL classes, or are residents of the community we serve at the Crooked Creek Food Pantry.

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Adult Discipleship

Registration & Child Care

9:15AM Sunday

June/July May 2014 2015 Connections@St. Luke’s

Please pre-register if you would like to request our complementary childcare, which is offered for some of the classes. Visit www.stlukesumc. com, type the class name in the upper right search bar and then click on the link to the class.

If the Internet baffles you, call us as 317-846-3404 and ask for help.

“On Being” Discussion - Ongoing

Sundays, 9:15AM, Spiritual Life Center If you are a fan of Krista Tippett’s “On Being” radio show airing Sundays, FM90.1, then join Betty Brandt for a lively discussion of each week’s show. Krista interviews authors, spiritual leaders, storytellers, entertainers, scientists, and political activists. Listen to the show prior to class at www. onbeing.org. Podcasts of the show are posted on the Friday before the Sunday airing.

10:30AM/Later Sunday Adult Sunday School

will take a summer break and continue in Fall

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 monthly dinner or other events beyond the classroom.

Women’s Bible Study

will take a summer break and continue in Fall

Thursday Afternoon Book Study

Thursdays, 1-2:30PM, Parlor Join this group, led by Phyllis Bybee to read and discuss a diverse selection of literature. In June, we visit Indianapolis houses of worship of other faiths including, St. George Greek Orthodox Church, Congregation Beth El-Zedeck and Hindu Temple of Central Indiana. If you are interested in any of these day trips, please contact Phyllis Bybee at 317-8496027 or bpbybee@sbcglobal.net.

In July, we are reading, “The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry”

by Gabrielle Zevin and will begin meeting July 2. No registration. July 30th will be a pitch-in meal and our last meeting, until we resume meeting in September.

Small Groups

Sermon Discussion - Ongoing

Sundays, 10:45AM, E107/109 Adults discuss the sermon after the 8 or 9:15AM service. Craig Overmyer & Gary Chambers lead.

St. Luke’s continues to watch for opportunities for small groups of members and friends to gather in intentional groups that find lasting relationship with one another. To learn more, contact Laura Marine, Adult Ministries Administrative Assistant, marinel@stlukesumc.com

New Perspectives - Ongoing

Thursday Connection

Sundays, 10:45-11:45AM, Spiritual Life Center A welcoming community of theologically diverse people seeking a place to respectfully share and explore ways to deepen their faith and increase understanding of what it means to be Christian.

Expect DVD series with discussion led by Don Reed.

will take a summer break and continue in Fall

Weekdays for All Adults Morning Bible Study

Weekdays for Women

Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30AM, The Forum at The Crossing An off-site senior adult Bible Study.

Coordinated by Adra Wheeler.

Christian Chat

Pastors’ Book Study

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. Each session is self-contained, and there is no homework. Join as your schedule permits, and come late or leave early as needed.

will take a summer break and continue in Fall

Café Conversation

will take a summer break and continue in Fall

New Staff Members Being Mortal Summer Book Study

Thursdays June 11-July 16, 9:15 - 10:45AM, Parlor Being Mortal by Atul Gawande, M.D. is a valuable contribution to the growing literature on aging, death and dying. It contains unsparing descriptions of bodily aging and the way it often takes us by surprise. It is also a call for a change in the philosophy of health care. Gawande writes that members of the medical profession (himself included) have been wrong about what their job is. Rather than ensuring health and survival, he recommends shifting focus “to enable wellbeing.” Gawande is a gifted storyteller. Have tissues close by. Read pages 1-54 for June 11.

Oasis Bookstore’s Online Summer Book Club

www.stlukesindy. wordpress.com, on or after June 8 Simply log on to www. stlukesindy.wordpress. com beginning June 8 and you’ll see new bookstore manager Kelly Witte’s posts about the book. Respond, ask questions, share your thoughts on Why Did Jesus, Moses, The Buddha, and Mohammed Cross the Road? by Brian McLaren.

Mike Ahlrichs’ Story of Recovering

June 23, 7-8:30 PM, Parlor Addiction is devastating for the afflicted as well as for those that love them. Michael Ahlrichs’ presentation details the solution that has worked for him–a program that integrates giving glory to God, prayer and meditation, the church and Alcoholics Anonymous. The result is hope and inspiration. Michael will also present and discuss his exquisite photo series, which chronicles his uplifting journey.

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June/July May 2014 2015 Connections@St. Luke’s

New & Familiar Faces Join St. Luke’s Staff Adult Discipleship

Eric Burton Krieger Pastor of Adult Discipleship and his wife Meagan will relocate to Indianapolis when Eric joins the St. Luke’s team in July. The couple has made a home in Nashville, TN, where Eric has served as Pastor of Adult Ministry at Brentwood UMC, a congregation with more than 6,000 members.

Eric graduated in 2011 graduate from Vanderbilt University Divinity School.

Front Office

Jennifer Dalton, Administrative Assistant, was born and raised in Indianapolis and grew up at St. Luke’s.

She joined the staff in April 2015. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Arts & Humanities from IUPUI. She embraces the opportunity to be a part the St. Luke’s community both professionally and personally. Jennifer loves spending time with her 15-month-old daughter and enjoys poetry and journaling.

Care Team

Sarah Clapp, Care Team Administrative Assistant, joined the St. Luke’s staff in April 2015. A member of the church since 2011, Sarah graduated from Hanover College with degrees in Physiology and Spanish. She loves the outdoors and is an avid sports fan.

Oasis Bookstore

Kelly Witte. Book Store Manager, has a long history with St. Luke’s. Baptized at St. Luke’s as an infant, she and her husband Daniel were married in the church. Kelly practiced law in Indianapolis until she decided to turn her attention to her growing family, which include Anna, Dawson and Dane.

SAVE THESE DATES! Adult Discipleship Fair

Aug. 23, 9AM - 1PM, Fellowship Hall Mark your calendar now for this great way to learn about our upcoming Fall classes and book studies. Stay tuned for more information in the August/ September issue of this publication.

Festival of Faiths

Aug. 30, 1-4PM, War Memorial Plaza, Downtown Indianapolis Music, drumming, dancing, prayers, food, booths from dozens of faith traditions in Central Indiana. Here is a unique opportunity to learn about other faiths and meet people from other cultures. Sponsored by the Center for Interfaith Co-operation.

St. Luke’s is represented on their Board by Betty Brandt.

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June/July2014 February 2015 Communion Connections@St. Luke’s

Spiritual Life Center SPIRITUALITY AND THE ARTS

Find SLC On Facebook

“St. Luke’s UMC – Spiritual Life Center.”

Spiritual Life Center’s Blog

Spiritual Life Center has a blog at slcblog. stlukesumc.com.

Magical Night at the St. Luke’s Labyrinth

Sunday June 21, 7-8:30PM, St. Luke’s Labyrinth (behind Luke’s Lodge on the NE corner of the parking lot).

Celebrate summer by making music and walking our “infull-bloom” Daylily Labyrinth. Bring a lawn chair and a music maker (drum, flute, tambourine, singing bowl, etc) and bug spray. Stay until dark to witness the labyrinth filled with fireflies – Magical!!!!

St. Luke’s at the Movies

Third Friday of the month, 7-9PM, Parlor June 19 - The Good Lie, with Reese Witherspoon.

See American culture through the eyes of four young Sudanese refugees aided by an American woman.

July 17 - The Giver, based on 1993 Lois Lowry dystopian novel. Jeff Bridges, Meryl Streep star.

Artist of the Month - June/July

Meet Shirley Luttrell who works in oil, acrylic and watercolor. Reception June 14. She loves to teach young and old in the medium they like best. The gallery will be closed in late July for maintenance.

Crochet Guild of Indianapolis

1st Saturday of the month, 10AM-Noon, E107/109 Learn to crochet and contribute to on-going projects. Contact Edie Huffman, 317-228-0496.

minutes of Christian meditation. You will find support for your practice, new ideas and a community of others who welcome silence. Led by Merri Leffel.

HEALING MINISTRY

Healing Partners Appointments

Sessions to re-energize and relax persons to enable their own natural resources to deal with illness or injury. Process honors all faith traditions. Call 317846-3404 x442, or healingministries@stlukesumc. com for a daytime or evening appointment. No fee, donations appreciated.

Book Studies & Workshops

Sunrise Book Study

Body/Mind/Spirit

Wednesdays, 7-8:30AM, Parlor. Start your day with friends, prayer, a good book, stimulating discussion and personal enrichment. Contact Betty Brandt at 317-846-3404 or brandtb@stlukesumc.com.

Gentle Yoga Class

Spiritual Book Study

Monday & Thursday 5:30-6:30PM, N103/104, $5/ session - 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). Taught by Carol Holden.

Yoga for Stress

Mondays, through June 29, 9:30-10:45AM Thursdays, through July 2 - 8:30-9:45AM; All classes in N103/104 – Walk-ins $15/class Ending with a 15-minute guided deep relaxation, this class will help you gain balance, strength and flexibility in your body, peace and calm in your mind. All levels. Register online, www.stlukesumc. com. New classes begin July 13 & 16, respectively.

Prayer and Meditation

Moving Meditation

Thursdays 10:30-11:30AM, Luke’s Lodge - $10 Meditation creates balance and helps the body heal and relieves stress. This class will practice a form of standing meditation which can be done in a chair if needed. Equip yourself to serve by taking good care of your body/mind/spirit.

Ongoing Meditation Group

Mondays, 6:30-7:30PM, Spiritual Life Center Join in a 30-minute discussion followed by 30

Tuesdays, 11AM-12:30PM, Spiritual Life Center Group members suggest and select books that will stretch awareness on spiritual subjects. Expect lively discussions. New members are welcome! Contact JoAnne Waeltz, 317-872-0895

New Earth Community

Thursdays, 7-8:30PM, Spiritual Life Center This study group discusses innovative and challenging spiritual books. Contact JoAnne Waeltz, 317-872-0895.

Health Ministries

Live Healthy with Diabetes

Free classes on living healthier with diabetes.

Workshops to be held on six consecutive Saturdays, July 11-August 15, E105. Register by July 8. Contact: Jamesey Thomas 317-396-3751 or jthomas@ oasisnet.org.

Health, Homeless & Hydration Walk

Register with Adrienne Smith, adrienne.smith@ livehealthyindy.com by June 7. Cost: one case of bottled water for Outreach Inc. homeless youth.

Track your steps – at least 30-min/day – from June 14-28. Optional: meet at the Monon trail at 1035 Broad Ripple Ave. on June 14 and June 21 at 4PM to walk with others. Walkers will receive a walking log – and prizes for outstanding effort.

Care Grief Ministries

Remembering Journal Making

Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26, 7-8:30PM, E105, $40 Creativity and grief may seem like an oil-and-water mix. Yet grief coach Deb Buehler is ready to show you how to reconnect with your inner spark in this worskshop where memories and an art journal combine for healing.

Healing Under Grief Support

2PM Sundays in the Parlor, with dinner out at 4PM If you have finished a small group grief support experience, HUGS may be a next-step group.

This group is ongoing for anyone who has lost a spouse or significant life partner. Contact Marsha Hutchinson, marsha2944@gmail.com

HOPE

Monthly, 2nd Tuesday, 7PM, Spiritual Life Center For anyone who has lost a baby to miscarriage, fetal demise, stillbirth, or early infant death. For more information contact Marsha Hutchinson at marsha2944@gmail.com. A memorial garden is located on the west side of St. Luke’s for any perinatal or infant loss. Engraved plaques may be ordered and mounted on the brick garden wall. For information contact Marci and Jim Harenberg at 317-705-0771.

Men’s Spousal Loss Grief Group

Every Thursday from 1-2PM in Luke’s Lodge (northeast corner of church property) This men’s group will meet for fellowship and support and to allow a safe and confidential place to “say it all” with other men who understand this complex journey. Whether you have lost a spouse recently or years ago, you are invited to join. For more information, call Bob Shive at 317-253-8184, or rlshive@yahoo.com.

Dad’s Child Loss Grief Group

For any father who has lost a young adult child.

The Dad’s group meets every Tuesday at 7AM for light breakfast at the Le Peep, 8255 Craig Street, Castleton area, and Thursdays at 7AM at Denny’s at I-65/Greenwood Exit.

Support Groups

Chronic Pain Support Group

June 15 & July 20, 6:30PM, N101/102 A support group for patients with all types of neuropathic and fibromyalgia pain and for their

families and friends. No registration is required.

Questions? Contact Dr. Meg Frazer at 317-844-2903 or margaret.L.frazer@pfizer.com.

Family Support Group

June 10 & July 8, 6:30PM, Conference Room Emotional and spiritual support for families who have a member abusing drugs or alcohol.

Adult ADD Support Group

July 18 & july 16, 7-8:30PM, W125. Support for adults with ADD. For more information call Mary Katherine Schnitz at 317-846-3404 x365.

St. Luke’s Health Ministry A Chance to Care; a Chance to Heal

Spiritual, emotional and physical health are naturally connected. Whether you have time and skill to share or learn, or you are in need of health care services, Health Ministries & Parish Nurses offer services and programming that support the integration of a healthy lifestyle into the life of faith. Offerings include screenings, assessments, blood drives, and educational seminars that help individuals examine lifestyle choices that promote wellness. To volunteer or to register for classes or care, contact st.lukeshealthministry@gmail.com.

Need To Talk To Someone Who Cares?

If you struggle with sadness, loneliness or depression, or have a life challenge, please contact a member of our care team. We are ready to support you. Call the church at 846-3404 or email Rev. Kim King at kingk@stlukesumc.com. We are here to listen & help.

THINK STEPHEN!

When those difficult times appear in your life, THINK STEPHEN. Stephen Ministers are trained to be loving, supportive, Christian friends. You do not have to walk this journey alone. Please contact Mary Katherine at 846-3404 or schnitzm@ stlukesumc.com

Prayer Shawl Ministry

Tuesdays, 1-3PM, Luke’s Lodge Prayerful volunteers who like to knit or crochet and love the fellowship of working together make prayer shawls for those needing to be wrapped in God’s healing love. New knitters welcome. Led by Helen Vriesman.

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June/July May 2014 2015 Connections@St. Luke’s

Free Blood Pressure Screening

9-10:30AM June 14 & July 12 Conference Room in Main Office (watch for signs) Join us for this free service on the 2nd Sunday of every month.

St. Luke’s Blood Drive

Sunday, July 12, from 9AM-1PM, Great Hall. More than 17 years old?

You could save a life as a blood donor. Please bring a photo ID, a list of medications, and be sure to hydrate on both July 11 & 12.

More Support Groups: • ALS Caregiver Support Group • ALS Patient Support Group • Brooke’s Place for Grieving Young People • Lupus Foundation Support Group • POCHA (parents of children with food allergies) • Resolve Peer Meeting (Infertility issues) Meeting details available at stlukesumc.com, or call the Main Office 317-846-3404 for more information.

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June/July 2015 Connections@St.Luke’s

2014-2015 Results Tallied

Survey Results Show St. Lukers Highly Loyal After conducting more than one year of surveys of St. Luke’s UMC members and constituents, respondents gave high marks for loyalty to the faith community, with nearly three-fourths agreeing that the church is “on the right track.”

St. Luke’s member, Frank Walker, donated his time and his company’s resources to conduct the first year of quarterly surveys. He continues to support the effort.

“First and foremost, (the survey shows) St. Luke’s is a very loyal and committed congregation. Loyalty is based on things like the intent to continue attending and support financially, and feelings about the changes in the direction of the church.”

One-forth of the congregation was invited to reply each quarter in 2014, with the practice continuing in 2015. The 2014 results provide a baseline against which later survey results can be compared.

The results are “good news in the midst of changes over the last several years,” according to Karen Christensen, a long-time marketing research professional who currently manages the project on a volunteer basis. “First and foremost, St. Luke’s is a very loyal and committed - Karen Christensen congregation,” Karen reported.

survey manager

“Loyalty is based on things like the intent to continue attending and support financially, and feelings about the changes in the direction of the church.”

In 2014, 74% of respondents agreed with the direction that St. Luke’s is going. The next largest segment (16%) neither agreed nor disagreed that the church is on the right track. About 10% reported they did not agree with the church is on the right track.

The analysis shows that one of the most important drivers of loyalty is the worship experience –in particular, the sermon. There are other things that are important as well, such as the opportunity for outreach, discipleship and relationships with pastors and staff. Respondents report these areas are handled very well.

While no areas stood out as unacceptable, suggestions for improvement focused on elements of the worship experience: especially times, locations and styles, which underwent change over the course of last year.

While not a large portion of the responses, some commented on a desire to see the times return to 2014 status, and to move Contemporary Worship to Robertson Chapel. Additionally, respondents named an appreciation for sermon topics related to daily life issues.

Traditional worship suggestions addressed technology before and during worship, more uplifting and recognizable music, and the need for more stillness for quiet prayer and reflection as part of worship.

Contemporary worship suggestions centered on sound quality, volume and length of musical sets at the beginning of worship.

In addition, there were many comments regarding programming, communication, worship experience and facilities. Some of the most frequent comments regarded requests for programming for working women, young adults, a Saturday evening worship option, classes other than Disciple Bible Study and updating the new member/visitor follow-up.

The suggestions provide helpful feedback to staff and other church leaders, Karen said. “It will be interesting to watch the results as participants see some of these ideas implemented over time.”

Address questions about the survey to Karen Christensen at kechristensen@me.com.

Fellowship

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June/July May 2014 2015 Connections@St. Connections@St.Luke’s Luke’s

Singles Toastmasters

Tuesdays, 7-8:30PM, N101/102 Improve communication and leadership skills. Call Cathy Baker at 317-334-7821.

Volleyball

Most Wednesdays & Fridays • 6:30PM • Great Hall See the schedule online or check the volleyball status line at 317721-3099 after 4:30PM. The cost to play is $2. For information, email slsvb@ecnsltng.com.

Elderberries Euchre United Methodist Women (UMW) For details on any event or group, visit www.stlukesumc.com/getinvolved/umw/ UMW Semi-Annual Food Drive New Life - Single Women Calls April Collection a Success Friday, June 26, 6PM, Parlor, $3 St. Luke’s UMW semi-annual food drive during the month of April was a success, organizers report. Food Pantries benefiting from the drive included First Baptist Food Pantry, Fletcher Place Community Center, Brightwood Community Center, and Vida Nueva Hispanic Ministries. Food Pantry items were placed in the wooden bins in the west passage and narthex, then delivered to area food pantries by UMW volunteers. Many thanks to St. Luke’s for this show of generosity.

UMW Reading Group

Read War Brides by Helen Bryan then join us on Monday, June 22 from 7-8:30PM in the Parlor. On July 27 (same time/place), the topic is North Korea. Choose the book of greatest interest to you from this list: Nothing to Envy by Barbara Demick; Without You There is No Us by Suki Kim, Long Road Home by Yong Kim and Escape from Camp 14 by Blaine Harden. For information, please contact Jennifer Todd at jtoddosu@aol.com.

Come for dinner and fellowship. Bring a friend and a wrapped White Elephant gift for this evening of fun with other single women.

Friday, July 24, 6PM, Parlor Chick Flick night is coming! Bring your favorite picnic food to share. We’ll provide the paper goods & beverage and, of course . . . the popcorn.

For additional information about New Life Circle, call Nancy Hopper at 341-5032 or email her at nchopper26@yahoo.com or call Cathy at 334-7821.

Some Circles Break in Summer Sarah Circle will resume meeting Monday, Sept. 21 at 1:00PM in the Parlor. Contact: Esther Childress, estrchild@aol.com Mary Magdalene will resume Sept. 8.

Eve Circle will resume meeting Sept. 1.

Watch for more information about circle meeting plans in the Aug./Sept. issue of this publication.

The monthly Elderberries Euchre games will be Saturday, June 20 and July 18 • 6:45PM • Parlor.

Bring a snack to share.

Dinners

June 4 • 5:30 - 7:30PM • Fellowship Hall - Bring a dish to share and $3 to help cover costs for entertainment, a Hawaiian dance group.

Annual Picnic - Thurs., July 2 • 5:15-7:15PM • Oak Hill Mansion • 5801 E. 116th St., Carmel, IN • $15 - Food & entertainment included. For more information or reservations, contact Adra Wheeler at 317-846-3404.

Encore Thinking about retirement or have recently retired? Contact Jackie King, jk21@comcast.net or 317658-4375 for info on fellowship events.

Sports Men’s Basketball

Friendly pick-up games (ages 16+) on Thursday nights from 7:309:30PM in Great Hall. Contact Chris Lemming at 317-595-8545 or email chris.lemming@anthem.com.

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Preschool/Children

Music, Art & Drama (MAD Camp)

Sunday Morning Options:

May 2014 2015 June/July Connections@St. Luke’s

New this summer.

Sign up your children to help them explore their creative side.

More details and registration at www.stlukesumc.com.

@StLukesTrack or text “follow @ stlukestrack” to 40404 stlukesumc.com/ ministries/children

St. Luke’s UMC The Track

Preschool at 9:15 & 11AM

June & July – It’s Summer! Time for Camp Splish Splash. Camp Splish Splash will introduce our preschoolers to lots of interactive Bible stories that all teach us God’s way is perfect.

In June, preschoolers will hear about Noah, his ark, the multitude of animals and the rainbow. This is always a preschool favorite, Noah’s story is such a great one of how one man trusted God and did extraordinary things. And, the animals—they’re lots of fun too. Then, preschoolers will learn about Jonah and that very BIG fish. Oh Jonah, why didn’t you listen the first time? Jonah truly shows us that God’s way is perfect, even when we don’t want to do it. The month will end with Gideon and his dwindling army. Now, here is a man who really trusted that God’s way is perfect. He listened to God and allowed his scared soldiers to leave. Then, God told him to only keep the soldiers who drank from the river in a certain way. Gideon trusted and listened, and God led his army to victory.

In July, preschoolers will hear all about Moses. They will learn how God had an amazing plan to save him by having his mother place him in a basket in the reeds. Then, they will hear how God led Moses to part the Red Sea by holding up his staff. Finally, they’ll hear how Moses used that same staff to hit a rock and provide His people with water. Do you see what is going on here? It’s Camp Splish Splash after all! Preschoolers will end the month by learning the story of Naaman and how they can do what God says even when it’s hard. Why should they do what God says? Because God’s way is perfect!

As we share these stories with preschoolers, we want not only to have fun, but to show them solid examples of people following God’s way. We want to teach them to trust God’s way in the easier things so that when life gets harder, they will know that God’s way is perfect, and that’s the way they should choose. The children will finish off the month with a Happy Helper Party where they will receive a certificate that they are an official member of the Happy Helper Club.

Elementary at 9:15 & 11AM June & July - Growing up, I always thought it’d

be cool to be a superhero. Mostly because, well, flying sounded like it would be AMAZING. But also because superheroes stood up for what was right regardless of how dangerous or how scary the situation. Their conviction drove them to find the courage to stand up to evil, even when no one else seemed to care or stood petrified with fear. No matter what, the superhero came to the rescue.

Given the chance, I thought that jumping into the storyline of my favorite superhero comic book sounded like something I would want to do with my life. I guess it’s because when I was kid, I didn’t realize that I was already part of an amazing story.

No one ever told me that it didn’t take some super power to act like a superhero. I have a feeling there are a ton of kids out there who feel the same way.

That’s why we’re taking the months of June and July to discover what it means to Stand Up: Get in the Story as we learn more about conviction.

Our virtue this month is: Conviction. It means standing for what’s right, even when others don’t.

Let’s take Jesus for example. Even for Jesus, the Son of God, it wasn’t always popular to do the right thing. Sometimes doing the right thing meant hanging out with tax collectors, blessing the little children, or even forgiving someone who had done something wrong. No matter what it was that Jesus needed to do, He did it because it was the right thing to do.

But doing the right thing often made Jesus stand apart from some of the rich and powerful people of His time. Jesus was able to live with conviction because He knew the will of His Father, and that gave Him strength and courage. In the same way, God has given us the ability to know what is right and the ability to do it. You see, when we are fueled

by God’s character, we will stand up for the things that matter to God.

Bring-Your-Dadto-Church Day

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June/July 2015 Connections@St. Luke’s

Sunday, June 21 (Father’s Day)

St. Luke’s Front entrance & Parking Lot 8AM - 1PM - Get A Car Wash (Drop off/drive through) 11AM to 1PM - Come-&-Go Cookout (Includes PRIZES!*) Celebrate your dad, or the guy you count on like a dad this Father’s Day. Let our Youth Group wash the car while you take Dad to worship (your car wash donation supports youth missions). Plus, all men 18 or older can register to win some great prizes, including a brand new Big Green Egg Grill*

Drawing at 12:30PM*

* Must be present to win; Food in the Narthex if it rains

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June/July 2015 Connections@St.Luke’s

Reunion with a Special thanks to Lori Crantford who interviewed Elizabeth Gilbert for Connections.

Editor’s Note: When Iva Nasr of Indianapolis introduces her soon-to-be-released memoir this summer she will have the endorsement of her dear friend and best-selling author, Elizabeth Gilbert. On July 28, 7 to 8:30PM in the St. Luke’s Sanctuary the pair will take the stage to discuss From Rifles to Roses: Memories and Miracles, the story of Iva’s quest for life after the trauma she faced while living in war-torn Lebanon.

Iva has participated in St. Luke’s Spiritual Life Center programs both as student and leader.

H

aving written about her own journey in her New York Times Bestseller, Eat, Pray Love: One Woman’s Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia, Elizabeth Gilbert celebrates Indianapolis author Iva Nasr’s friendship, and her journey toward wholeness in this conversation with Connections.

Connections: Let’s start at the beginning. You met Iva in North Carolina, at Eustace Conway’s farm, which was the setting of your book Last American Man. Iva has written of that meeting: “Liz and I were clearly meant to have our reunion in this lifetime.” How have you and Iva influenced each

July 28 7-8:30PM Sanctuary Hear Iva Nasr and Elizabeth Gilbert discuss From Rifles to Roses: Memories and Miracles

other? Did you feel that same sense of “reunion”?

Elizabeth Gilbert: I did! Iva is so electric, passionate and alive. When I saw her I thought, “What is this firefly doing here?” In a room full of people we were sending a signal over everyone’s heads like two cell phone towers: “Hi! Hi! Hi! Hi! Hi!” Iva has given me wise counsel over the years. The thing about our friendship is that we’re encouraging, not enabling. We love each other but we hold each other accountable. We’re not the kind of friends who pat you on the head and say, “There, there…” when things go badly. I mean, we comfort each other, but we also say, “You know, you’re stronger than this. You can choose to be strong.” We have that kind of friendship.

Connections: The world at large was first introduced to Iva in Eat, Pray, Love when she encouraged you to write a petition to God about your divorce. She had you envision people signing that petition, including the Clintons, Gandhi and Michael J. Fox. A few minutes later, you got a phone call saying the divorce had just been finalized. This is exactly the kind of power within each of us that Iva talks about in her book. Do you believe this kind of connection is possible for all of us?

EG: I do! I know it’s not a particularly modern or rational way to look at the universe, but I think that if you’re going to live a creative life you have to be wary of being too rational. That kind of limited thinking is the death of creativity and everything that shimmers. Iva does that so naturally. Even as a child, she was able to see worlds beyond this world. It’s a gift that we can all have, to look beyond what we are told is or is not possible to experience new realities for ourselves. Iva is a larger-than-life example of what can happen when we allow ourselves to get out of our own way.

Connections: Four themes in Iva’s book command attention: war, quest, celebration and openness.

Let’s talk about war first. Big chunks of Iva’s

Firefly journey have some connection to the war in Lebanon. Do we all have a war that is our personal touchstone or defining era/ moment?

EG: Iva never wanted to be the “War Girl.”

She wanted to be the “Life Girl!” When she was living in Lebanon, she didn’t think of herself as the War Girl because she was no different than anyone around her. But when she moved to the States, suddenly people wanted to define her by those war experiences. That was difficult for her. I think that’s why she stayed in the mountains of North Carolina for so long: to escape that and learn how to deal with those war experiences. She had to come to her reckoning with it, and when it came time to tell her story, she chose to write a life memoir, not a war memoir. War, of course, is both a reality and a metaphor.

Thankfully I’ve never had to experience the reality. I hope I never do. But we all have our own “wars.” Because of her experiences, Iva is uniquely qualified to help people deal with their own wars, whatever those might be.

Connections: Quest? Iva is certainly a seeker, and strongly encourages that in others. How has Iva’s view challenged or sparked your intentionality to be more of a seeker?

EG: Iva’s way of seeking has certainly informed mine. When it comes to selfaccountability, I always came at it from a very Yankee perspective because of the way I was raised. Iva comes at selfaccountability from a spirit standpoint, which is very powerful. When you can say I get to choose who I am in this time and place and understand that no one can choose who you are for you, that you get to be in charge of you, that’s awesome stuff.

Connections: Celebration? Iva has a major life moment where she comes up with this guiding principle: “Suffering is not the only nor the best path to enlightenment.

Choose the celebratory way.” For

St. Luke’s hosts national bestseller’s visit to promote a local author’s new book

whatever reason, many of us seem to like living in the dark side. Is this kind of thinking a challenge for you?

EG: Dark-side thinking is a dangerous thing. Society has romanticized pain, especially for artists. If you’re not struggling, if you’re not walking around saying, “Look at all the pain I’ve gone through in order to make this thing or be this person,” then somehow your accomplishments are minimized. Iva and I have a pact that we will never choose the path of martyrdom. We don’t choose the path of suffering. I’m not saying that life is all rosy, but when circumstances are difficult you get to choose how you handle that. When you show your full commitment to grace and pursue that, great things happen.

Connections: Openness? In the spirit of being open, what would you say to those who might be skeptical of some of Iva’s stories, experiences or beliefs?

EG: All kinds of people have all kinds of experiences that I’ve never had. Why shouldn’t I believe them? Iva has danced with angels and I think, “That’s so cool! I want to dance with angels!” Just because I haven’t seen or done many of the things that she’s done doesn’t mean they didn’t happen.

Connections: Iva also speaks passionately about dialogue. She says it denotes an exchange, a two-way flow without a prevailing agenda or fixed expectations.

What might we expect from your dialogue with Iva in July?

LG: I’m just so excited to be able to be a platform for this person I love and adore … to say, “Look at her! Isn’t she awesome!” We’ll share some stories of our own adventures and take questions from the audience. It’s going to be a lovely evening, and I can’t wait to introduce her to the world.

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June/July 2015 Connections@St.Luke’s

For tickets to this event, visit www.stlukesumc.com.

Elizabeth Gilbert is the author of the international bestseller Eat Pray Love. Her latest novel, The Signature of All Things, has been optioned by MASTERPIECE on PBS and will be adapted for television.

Her next book, Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear, will be available in September 2015.

Iva Nasr was born and raised in Lebanon and lived through the civil war there until she and her family moved to Bloomington, IN, when Iva was a teenager.

Iva is a teacher/mentor/coach/writer/ dancer/universe tour guide. Her amazing life story is told in her memoir From Rifles to Roses: Memories and Miracles, her first book, available in July 2015.

When I saw (Iva Nasr) I thought, ‘What is this firefly doing here?’ In a room full of people we were sending a signal over everyone’s heads like two cell phone towers: ‘Hi! Hi! Hi! Hi! Hi!’ -Elizabeth Gilbert, Author of Eat, Pray Love, on her instant connection with this St. Luke’s friend

Lunch (on us) with the Pastors Bring the whole family for lunch to hear Pastor Rob Fuquay share the vision of St. Luke’s. Sundays, July 19 and Aug. 16 • 12:15-1:30PM • Fellowship Hall – Register for lunch online www. stlukesumc.com. Search “Lunch with the Pastors.”

Exploring Membership Class

Let Us Help You Find Your Next Steps

Welcome to St. Luke’s Welcome to St. Luke’s United Methodist Church! We are so glad you are here.

As you get to know this faith community, we hope you will discover that we are an open and welcoming body of believers, that lives out our mission: “to seek, celebrate, live and share the love of God for all creation.”

We strive to be the kind of community that wants to know what God cares about, so we can learn to care about it, too; a community that does the right thing even when it’s hard; a community that smooths the path for those who are curious about how to have a strong and life-giving relationship with a loving God. We strive to be the kind of faith community that reflects the light of Christ to the world around us.

Maybe this sounds like the kind of faith community you have been looking for – but you really need to know more about us. We understand. That’s why we have developed some opportunities to help you take next steps with us. These opportunities help you learn more about us and our relationship with God, even as you try to strengthen your own relationship with God. If you have young people in your family, we can introduce you to age-appropriate programming that’s available for them. We have a robust children’s, youth and young adult ministry at St. Luke’s.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Terri Coe, Director of New Here Ministries, Coet@stlukesumc.com or (317) 846.3404, ext. 308.

Pastor Rob Fuquay and other clergy introduce the St. Luke’s mission to, “seek, celebrate, serve and share the love of God for all creation.” Learn what membership at St. Luke’s means. Light lunch is provided. Sunday, Aug. 30 or Nov. 8 • Noon – 3PM • Luke’s Lodge – Register online at www.stlukesumc. com. Search “Membership Class.”

Faith That Makes A Difference Terri Coe, Director of New Here Ministries, leads this basic Christianity class, Wed. Sept. 9, 6:30-8:30PM • E213. Explore the life-changing beliefs and practices that help seekers embrace God’s love and grace, follow Christ, and live with meaning and purpose. – Register online at www.stlukesumc. com. Search “Faith That Makes A Difference.”

To register

Go to www.stlukesumc.com and type the event name in the search box on the top right.

Childcare is available for many of these opportunities.