communion-2011-03

Jesus the Jewish Story-Teller Hearing the Parables Anew

Sunday, March 6, 7:30-9:00PM, Sanctuary. Cost: $10 at the door GUEST SPEAKER: Dr. Amy-Jill Levine, University Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies, E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Professor of New Testament Studies, and Professor of Jewish Studies, Vanderbilt University Divinity School and College of Arts and Sciences.

First-century Jews knew that parables were not simple stories: they were designed to challenge, to provoke, to engage the mind as well as the heart. Join Dr. Amy-Jill Levine to learn how Jesus' stories would be understood by those who first heard them, and why recovering this understanding is important to both Christians and Jews today. Her presentation will include time for Q&A followed by a book-signing opportunity with Dr. Levine. Co-sponsored by the Jewish Community Relations Council, CTS, and St. Luke’s United Methodist Church.

See page 4 for information on Dr. Levine’s March 7 presentation at CTS.

MARCH 2011

MONTHLY

COMMUNION The Jesuses I Have Known In Matthew 16 (and in Mark 8 and Luke 9), we find an important conversation between Jesus and his disciples. Jesus begins by asking them who people say that he is. The responses are varied: Some say he's a prophet, some say a teacher, some even say he's Elijah or John the Baptist come back to life. Jesus then asks them: “Who do you say that I am?” Most of them fall silent—only Peter steps forward and proclaims that Jesus is the Messiah, even though not even he fully grasps what that will mean.

The question Jesus asked his apostles is an important one for us to consider as well: “Who do you say Jesus is?” If we want to answer Jesus’ question well, we need to sort through our own experiences of Jesus while at the same time acknowledging others’ experience. We need to wrestle with different perspectives on Jesus’ identity while we work to define our own perspective. We need to read not only the passages which confirm our belief in Jesus, but also those stories that challenge and stretch our conceptions.

During Lent, we’ll be exploring different perspectives on Jesus. Our hope is that when that question is raised for us, we'll be able to step forward and say not just what others have reported, but how we have experienced him in our lives as well.

ASH WEDNESDAY Start your Lenten journey with a time of reflection, music and ashes on March 9 at 7PM in Robertson Chapel.

Lenten Concert Reflects on the Face of Jesus in Song & Art St. Luke’s Chancel Choir and Orchestra will present a special concert called “The Face of Christ: A Musical Portrait,” on Sunday, March 20, at 3PM in the Sanctuary. The musical selections, augmented by the art of digital visual artist Ben Yonker, will trace Jesus’ life, death and resurrection.

Musical selections will include classic choral favorites, including excerpts from Messiah and Bach’s “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring,” and will also include pieces from jazz, cinema, Russian Orthodox, and gospel traditions.

In addition, a special guest speaker, author Beth Booram, will give a pre-concert talk at 2:15PM about how artists have tried to capture on canvas the face of Jesus, each artist reflecting the culture and styles of his or her lifetime. Booram, a vocational minister, is the author of Picturing the Face of Jesus and The Wide Open Spaces of God. The concert will offer an opportunity to, as the psalmist reminds us, to seek the face of God, and learn how art—heard and seen—can enhance our spiritual journeys and meditative moments. The performance and pre-performance talk are free and open to the public; a free-will offering will be received.

St. Luke’s is an open

community of Christians gathering to seek, celebrate, live and share the love of God for all creation. We envision being transformed by God and

transforming the world

into a

compassionate, just, inclusive, Christ-like community.

This issue lists upcoming events March 2011 through mid-April.

The deadlines for submitting announcements for the 2011 COMMUNION MONTHLY: March 7 for April issue (publishes 3/27) April 4 for May issue (publishes 4/24)

COMMUNION MONTHLY:

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 this publication is available online.

Send your announcements to Lori Crantford at crantfordl@stlukesumc.com or leave them in her mailbox in the main office. Notices of births, deaths and weddings should be given to Sylvia Forbes (forbess@stlukesumc.com or 846-3404 x343) and can be left with her weekly to be published in the Worship Guide.

All classes, events and groups are open to all; church membership or affiliation is not required for participation. WELCOME TO ST. LUKE’S!

ALL-CHURCH Pancakes and Jazz

Expanded Mid-Week Lenten Worship Experiences

Tuesday, March 8, 6-8PM, Great Hall. The annual Fat Tuesday celebration, Pancakes and Jazz, features New Orleans style jazz by The Cat Jazz Band. This year’s event is sponsored

by Singles, Later@St. Luke’s, Green Ministry, and the Young Adult Community. Tickets are $5 in advance or $8 at the door. Children under age three eat for free! Advance tickets are available in the church office Monday-Friday, 9AM- 5PM, or at the Pancakes & Jazz table in the West Passage between services on Sunday mornings. We look forward to seeing everyone come out on Fat Tuesday for great food, fun, music and fellowship!

Clergy, the Music Department and the Spiritual Life Center join together to bring you experiential, meaningful, creative worship—same service at Noon and at 6PM for the Wednesdays during Lent. Adult Education offers a lunch/discussion at 12:30PM following the Noon service. Discussion in C110, 6:45-7:30PM following the evening service. Mark your calendars now for the six Wednesdays of Lent, beginning March 16.

ADULT EDUCATION To pre-register for a class, go to www.stlukesumc.com/getinvolved/classes, or contact DeAnna Moran at 846-3404 x367 or at morand@stlukesumc.com. Oasis = Oasis Bookstore and Gift Shop located inside St. Luke’s.

BIBLICAL STUDIES

Women’s Bible Study Wednesdays, March 9-April 13: The Cross. During this Lenten season we will study the cross: the importance of the cross within Christianity, the various shapes of the crosses and their meaning; and, finally, what it means to live in the “shadow” of the cross. Both sessions led by Terri Coe.

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The Humor of Christ

Café Conversations: Lost Christianities—

Tuesdays, March 8, 15, 22, and 29, 7-8:30PM in E105. Registration helpful. Childcare available upon request. Dr. Elton Trueblood challenges the stereotype of a somber, gloomy Jesus—a Jesus who never laughed or smiled. He suggests three particular ways in which Christ's humor is used, first, in controversy, second, in parables, and third, in a short dialogue. Consider ways we use humor to make a point in our conversations. Examine as many as 30 scripture passages Trueblood believes, when seen in the light of humor, illuminates certain parables and brief sayings of Jesus. Led by Terri Coe.

The Battle for Scripture and the Faiths We Never Knew

Experiencing Scripture Through the Arts Sundays, March 13-April 17, 4:30–6PM in E107/109. This Lent, experience scripture through the arts and learn about utilizing the arts to enhance spiritual development and faith. Each session will include both a presentation as well as time for engagement through discussion and activity, often led by a guest specializing in the theme of the week. These themes are visual art (3/13), music (3/20), dance (3/27), drama (4/3), and sacred space (4/10). The final session will take place April 17 and allow time for creative contemplation and interaction. Classes will take place in different areas of the church so as to familiarize participants with the many creative opportunities/spaces at St. Luke’s. Facilitated by Caitlin Drouin, St. Luke’s member, and Chuck Goehring, former Director of Music Ministries.

Who Did Jesus Say He Was? Sundays, March 13–April 10, 11AM-Noon in the Parlor. The scriptures tell us that the disciples of Jesus, the crowds who gathered around him, and the religious leaders who watched him had their thoughts as to who Jesus was.

“Some say you are John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets” are just a few of their ideas. But what did Jesus say about himself? This Bible study will explore the Gospels to see what Jesus said, and we’ll discuss the meaning of the statements for those listening in the first century as well as those of us reading them today. Led by Terri Coe, Director of Adult Ministries, and Rev. Dan Motto, retired UM minister.

BOOK STUDIES

The Meaning of Jesus: Two Visions Thursdays, March 10-April14, 7-8:30PM in E105.

Registration recommended. Childcare available upon request. Have you ever wondered about the different ways Jesus is described? This study provides a setting in which questions can be looked at from different perspectives. Marcus Borg is a New Testament scholar and author of books suggesting emerging ways of being Christian. N.T. Wright, also a New Testament scholar, is a proponent of traditional ways of being Christian. Led by Dr. Bruce Roberts, retired, Christian Theological Seminary.

Wednesdays, 9:30–11AM in E105. What if Marcion’s canon (which consisted only of Luke’s Gospel and Paul’s letters, entirely omitting the Old Testament) had become Christianity’s canon? What if the Ebionites (who believed Jesus was completely human and not divine) had ruled the day as the Orthodox Christian party? What if various early Christian writings, such as the Gospel of Thomas or the Secret Gospel of Mark, had been allowed into the canonical New Testament? Bart Ehrman, a professor of religion at UNC Chapel Hill, offers answers to these and other questions in this book, which rehearses the now-familiar story of the tremendous diversity of early Christianity. He eloquently characterizes some of the movements and scriptures that were lost as he outlines the many strands of Christianity that competed for attention in the second and third centuries. Led by Dr. Marion Miller. Book available in Oasis Bookstore. ••• The Mystery of the Holy Spirit. April 6-May 25, 9:30–11AM in E105. Want to know about the Holy Spirit, one of the members of the Trinity? Bible teacher R.C. Sproul deepens the understanding of the Holy Spirit as he explores the many different roles the Spirit has in our lives.

Sproul deals with some of the most perplexing and frequently discussed issues with sensitivity. While the mystery surrounding the Holy Spirit is not dispelled, we are challenged to get to know the Holy Spirit better and to look for signs of its work in our life. Led by Dr. Marion Miller, St. Luke’s Associate Pastor.

SUNDAY MORNING CLASSES

Conversations Around the Scripture Sundays, now thru April 10, 9:30-10:30AM in E105. Do you feel like something is missing from life? Are you looking for consistency in your study of the Bible or prayer life? If yes, consider joining us as we explore the biblical message and discuss how to apply it to daily living.

Beginning with a focus on a particular passage of scripture, we’ll discuss how the message of these verses impacts personal, family, church, and community concerns.

This winter’s theme is “Assuring Hope” with sub-topics of “Comfort for God’s People,” “A Future for God’s People,” and, “Jesus, the Promised Servant-Leader.”

While connected by theme, each week’s lesson stands alone. Led by Terri Coe, Kathy Mayberry, Molly & Brian Earnhart, and Craig Overmyer, St. Luke’s Members.

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FAITH LEARNING INITIATIVE: EXPLORING FAITHS AND SACRED TRADITIONS The Faith Learning Initiative provides opportunities for religious learning and spiritual growth, helping people know their own traditions better, understand more about the faiths of their neighbors, and live more thoughtfully and compassionately in a complex world. ••• You may register through the Office of Lifelong Theological Education at Christian Theological Seminary. Online registration: www.cts.edu/events. Phone: (317) 9314224. For more information, contact Callie Smith at the Office of Lifelong Theological Education.

THE ANNUAL FORUM ON JEWISH-CHRISTIAN RELATIONS AT CHRISTIAN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY:

The Bible, the Middle East, Jewish-Christian Relations, & the Search for Peace and Justice Monday, March 7, 9AM–2:30PM, Christian Theological Seminary KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Dr. Amy-Jill Levine COST: $35; $45 with lunch included Dr. Levine will offer two lectures: "Between Exegesis and Execration: The Bible and the Middle East” and "Between Advocacy and Anti-Semitism: Christian Statements on the Middle East.” Registration deadline is February 28. For more information or to register, please contact Joyce Weidner, Office of Lifelong Theological Education, Christian Theological Seminary, (317) 931-4224 or e-mail LifeEd@cts.edu. For more information you may also visit the website at www.cts.edu/events. Co-sponsored by the Jewish Community Relations Council, CTS, and St. Luke’s United Methodist Church.

Sacramental Living: Life Journeys through Sacramental Spirituality LEADER: Dr. Tércio Junker, Assistant Professor of Worship/Director of Sweeny Chapel at CTS Saturday, April 16, 9AM–3PM (8:30AM registration), CTS Room 166 COST: $45; $55 for lunch included. Registration deadline: April 8

We all have a symbol, an object, even a story, that tells us about important moments in our lives. It has a special, mystic, even divine significance. Something that brings remembrance and longing for a significant experience—that brings us closer to others, to creation, and to God—is a means of grace. We can describe that symbol as having sacramental meaning. Bring your own symbol and tell its story at this workshop drawing on the experiences of Brazilian liberation theologians. For anyone interested in worship or in spiritual formation, this workshop will examine sacramental spirituality as an extraordinary experience of spiritual transformation.

Prayer in the Bible LEADER: Dr. Wilma Bailey, Professor of Hebrew and Aramaic Scripture at CTS Saturday, April 30, 9–11AM, CTS Room 122 COST: $25. Registration deadline: April 22

In the Gospel of Luke, the disciples ask Jesus to teach them to pray. There was a long tradition of prayer before Jesus came along. Jesus, however, complies and teaches them a prayer. According to Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus had very strong feelings about how one ought not to pray. He offers a model prayer to the disciples; but when he prays, he does not follow the model. This short workshop for lay people will examine prose prayers in the Bible, highlighting the way prayers changed over time, and in the end asking the question, “How then should we pray?”

BLUEVINE COLLECTIVE Looking for a Few Good Videographers The Bluevine Collective (www.thebluevinecollective.org, part of The Garden) is looking for anyone with any experience with a video camera to help record some classes here at St. Luke's, whatever your experience level. Our hope is to soon be able to offer classes online for people who couldn't make it at the scheduled time or who live elsewhere. For more information, please contact Matt Peyton at peytonm@stlukesumc.com.

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CARE MINISTRIES Purdue Glee Club Concert With integrity, passion, unparalleled showmanship and attention to every detail, the men of the Purdue Varsity Glee Club have proudly served as ambassadors of the university with honor and dignity for more than 115 years. Their performance at St. Luke's on Sunday, April 10 at 3PM is sponsored by the Stephen Ministry, and all proceeds will go to support St. Luke's Care Ministries. Tickets are $15/person, $10/student (any student aged 25 or under).

Founded in 1893, this select ensemble has entertained on behalf of Purdue University for campus, community, state, national and international events, averaging between 50-60 appearances each year. Embodying the spirit of service above self, the men of the Purdue Varsity Glee Club represent different backgrounds and hometowns across the country, consistently maintaining a high level of academic excellence with majors ranging from engineering to education to management to biological sciences. This dynamic musical troupe employs a versatile repertoire including gospel, vocal jazz, swing, contemporary hits, romantic ballads, classical choral selections, barbershop, folk melodies, patriotic standards, familiar opera choruses, country and novelty tunes, and utilizes small groups and outstanding soloists to further enhance each show.

Tickets available online now at www.stlukesumc.com, or may be purchased weekdays during working hours in the Administrative offices as well as on Sundays between services in the West Passage during March.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES Before viewing documentation from a yearlong study of children's spirituality, 45% of adults surveyed thought children needed to be six years or older to establish "a meaningful relationship with God." After viewing documented examples that detailed young children's spirituality and thoughts about faith, that number dropped to 17%. SOURCE: Christian Education Journal.

WINNER’S CIRCLE: Sunday mornings are filled with high energy fun starting at 9:30AM in Robertson Chapel for elementary aged children (1st-5th). Our Sunday morning curriculum is virtue based. We believe a virtue is something God is doing in us to help change the world around us.

MARCH’S VIRTUE: Courage—being brave enough to do what you should do even when you’re afraid. MEMORY VERSE: “When I am afraid, I will trust in you.” PSALM 56:3, NIV. MINI-TRACK: This month Early Childhood (Mini-Track) will focus on the basic truth: “Jesus wants to be my friend forever.” The memory verse is “He cares for you.” I PETER 5:7.

Please keep an eye out for the “Small Talk” resource that is sent home with your child. This has the memory verse on it and other questions to be asking your little one throughout the week.

4th and 5th grade Fellowship The next 4th and 5th grade event will be at The Lodge, March 4, 6:30-8:30PM. Cost is $5. If you have not already registered your child, please do so at www.stlukesumc.com under children’s ministry. If you have, then you only need to email thetrack@stlukesumc .com and let us know your child will attend. Also, we are in need of some parent volunteers, so if you can stay, let us know.

Mission Possible Kids Come and enjoy the fun, excitement and creativity with “special agents” who are on a mission from God. These children are learning how to do mission work, and they are about “kids helping kids” locally and around the world.

Join us every Sunday evening from 5-7PM in Fellowship Hall. For more information, contact Cathy Robinson at mpk@stlukesumc.com.

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CHILDREN’S MUSIC The Children’s Music Program Forecasts Rain!

The St. Luke’s Children’s Music Program will present the delightful jazz musical, “100% Chance of Rain”

by Walter Horsley. The story, about Noah and the ark, centers more on Noah’s relationship to God rather than on the animals. There is a ton of rain and lots of storms in the musical, but it has a happy ending with a beautiful rainbow as a reminder of God’s promise and covenant with us.

The full service will feature all of the Children’s Music Groups including Genesis, Elementary, Crescendo, Bell Choirs and a jazz quartet consisting of piano, flute, drum set and bass, along with special guests—members of the fourth and fifth grade classes of St. Luke's who provide the "storm" for us.

The program will be presented in Robertson Chapel on Sunday, March 6, at 9:30AM and 2PM. The congregation, family, friends and the public are all invited to attend this must-see event!

Admission is a bottle of water that will be donated to Outreach, Inc. (www.outreachindiana .org), an organization dedicated to the support of homeless teenagers in Indianapolis.

For more information about the service, please contact Debra Nethercott, Director of Children’s Music, at 846.3404 x329 or nethercottd@stlukesumc.com. And don’t forget…bring your umbrella!

CHILDREN’S PRESCHOOL & PDO For information regarding openings for the current school year or for the 2011-12 school year please call 844-3399 or contact Bobbi at main-jacksonb @stlukesumc.com or Alison at strawmyera@ stlukesumc.com.

We welcome new families!

Preschool

Parents’ Day Out

Classes (9AM-1PM) for three- to five-year olds are offered in a safe and nurturing Christian environment. All teachers are experienced, qualified, well-trained and strive to maintain strong relationships with the children and their families. Preschool offers a developmentally appropriate curriculum where children may grow socially, creatively, emotionally, cognitively and physically. Children must be 3 years old by 9/1/2011 to enroll for the 2011-12 school year.

Classes (9AM-1PM) are offered for children ages 10 months to 3 years. PDO was established to provide parents of young children time for themselves on a regular basis. Children participate in structured play in a safe and nurturing Christian environment one, two, or three days per week. Opportunities are provided for children to learn beginning social skills while having fun. Children must be 10 months by 9/1/2011 to enroll for the 2011-12 school year.

COMMUNITY MINISTRIES Fox Hill Elementary School Partnership There are many opportunities to support our partnership with Fox Hill: 1. ISTEP PROCTORING—From April 25-May 4, all 3rd, 4th and 5th graders at Fox Hill will be taking the Indiana annual ISTEP assessment. State guidelines require that every testing area be monitored by a licensed teacher and an adult proctor. Fox Hill will need several volunteers to help us fill these positions. If you would be able to proctor ISTEP, contact Karen Payne, assistant principal. She can be reached at 259-5371 x13305 or kpayne@msdwt.k12.in.us

2. MORNING TUTORS—Tuesday mornings all 2nd graders who need a little extra reading help are paired with a middle school or adult volunteer for 45 minutes of one-on-one reading at Peer Club. If you are interested in reading with a student each week on Tuesdays from 8-8:45AM, contact Kim Morrow at kmorrow@msdwt.k12.in.us.

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3. AFTERNOON MENTORS— Each weekday afternoon at Fox Hill, more than 80 children stay from 2:30 until 6PM for After-School Achievers. This program works with students identified as needing some extra help with work. If you would like to work one-on-one with a student on a regular basis, contact Tom Lange at tom.c.lange@gmail.com.

4. GET HEALTHY—Join Fox Hill in supporting the Washington Township Schools Foundation Great North 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, March 12, 9AM at North Central High School. In preparation for the Great North Run, Fox Hill would like to train some students. If you love to run and would like to introduce students to a healthy lifestyle—give us a jingle!! We need sponsor(s). Contact Kathy Levine, 259-5371 x13306 or klevine@msdwt.k12.in.us. To participate in the Great North Run, sign up to run/walk on the Foundation website at www.wtsfoundation.org. When you sign up, make Fox Hill your sponsoring school. The Foundation gives $500 to every school that has 100 participants. To sponsor a runner is $10/child. Make checks payable to Fox Hill School and send to Fox Hill, 802 Fox Hill Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46229.

Fletcher Place Community Center Breakfast dates are March 8, 10, 18 & 29 and April 12, 14 & 15. Need donations of food, paper goods or cash to pay for these items. Contact Joe Kenny at 705-0489 or jgkenny@ att.net for more information or to volunteer. Dinner dates are March 21 & 23 and April 18 & 27. Need volunteers to donate food items, cook and especially to transport and serve. See bulletin board in the hall between Robertson Chapel and Oasis Bookstore to sign up, or call Kay Horton at 253-9833 for more information. Volunteers are also needed in the thrift store, food pantry and GED preparation.

Contact Karen Mann at Fletcher Place, 636-3466 x4 or Karen@fletcherplacecc.org, or Larry Paxton at 873-2415 or ldrpaxton@indy.rr.com to volunteer.

Meals on Wheels Volunteer drivers are especially needed to deliver meals to individuals in northern Marion County. Pick-up sites include Marquette Manor and St. Vincent’s Hospital at 86th Street.

Deliveries in Hamilton County are needed as well. Training is provided. For more information about driving on a weekly, monthly or substitute basis, please contact Lynne Plawecki, 317-965-3801 or jplawecki@indy.rr.com.

FELLOWSHIP Elderberries There will be an Elderberries luncheon and program on Thursday, March 3 at 12:30PM in Fellowship Hall.

We ask that you bring a dish to share. A minimum $3/person donation is suggested. First-time visitors are free and it is not necessary to bring a dish. Please make reservations with Adra Wheeler at 253-4914 or 846-3404. The entertainment will be the North Central High School Descants. The Descants consistently are in the top state line up in both concert choir and show choir. In 2010 they were ISSMA State Show Choir Champions. Following the performance of the DESCANTS, we will be honoring Dr. Kent Millard in recognition of his 18 years as senior pastor of St. Luke’s. Dr. Millard will be our special guest that day.

Travel Opportunity Enjoy a travel experience this summer with your St. Luke's friends.

A theatre trip to London, August 22-30, will be led by Bob Zehr and our personal guides, the Rev. Andrew Holmes and Dr. Carolyn Scanlan. The trip will include R/T air, hotel, tickets to three London West End shows including the new musical version of "Ghost" and Andrew Lloyd Webber's sequel to Phantom, "Love Never Dies." The trip will also include a visit to Oxford and Stratford-on-Avon. The total cost will be approximately $3000/person for double occupancy. If interested, email Bob at zehrb@ stlukesumc.com or call 317-590-8739.

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GREEN MINISTRIES Inspiring Hoosiers to Care for Creation Hoosiers of all faiths will gather to celebrate God’s creation and issue a call to reduce energy use in our homes and congregations. St. Luke’s is part of Indianapolis Green Congregations, a sponsoring group. You are invited to join the United Methodist Church and other denominations for the first statewide gathering of Indiana clergy and lay people committed to acting as more responsible stewards of God’s Earth. This event will launch Hoosier Interfaith Power and Light (H-IPL), a new statewide organization that seeks to bring Hoosiers of faith together as stewards of creation in order to promote energy conservation, energy efficiency, renewable energy and related sustainable practices. The event will include an interdenominational worship experience and a mass choir program. Saturday, March 5, Noon-3:15PM at 1st Baptist Church, 8600 N. College Ave., Indianapolis.

To register, go to www.HoosierIPL.org, or call 812-332-5252.

Green Gratitude Award The Green Ministry wishes to thank all those who chose the Green Power Renewable Energy Option with your electric companies. IPL recently reduced the charge again for Green Power to $0.0009 per kilowatt-hour enrolled. One St. Luke’s member with 100% Green Power adds only $.26 a month to household electric bill (heats with gas).

New Electronic Recycling Law Beginning January 1, 2011, Indiana households, public schools, and small businesses are no longer able to mix unwanted computer monitors, computers, televisions, printers, computer peripherals (such as keyboards and mice), DVD players, videocassette recorders or fax machines with municipal waste that is intended for disposal at a landfill or intended for disposal by burning or incineration. This disposal prohibition can be found in Indiana Code 13-20.5. Bring electronics to St. Luke’s Recycling Center in the Central Passage, or to any e-waste collection program. To find a location e-waste collection program, see www.in.gov/recycle/5741.htm and then search by county.

Green Ministry Leadership Team Our ministry leadership team meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month, 5:30-7PM in E213 and welcomes new people to the discussion. Contact Betty Brandt (brandb@stlukesumc.com, 846-3404) or just show up.

HEALTH MINISTRY Blood Pressure Screening Take advantage of a free blood pressure screening on Sunday, March 13, 9-11AM in C110.

Please refrain from smoking or having caffeine thirty minutes beforehand. Offered the second Sunday of every month by St. Luke’s Health Ministries.

INCLUSIVENESS MINISTRY Race Relations Study Circle Forming A race relations study circle consists of a diverse group of 12-14 people who gather for two hours once a week for five weeks to dialogue about race relations, guided by trained facilitators. Participants move from personal experience to considering multiple viewpoints to strategies for action.

Honest conversation, greater understanding of the issue, and an opportunity for citizens to work together to improve their community are hallmarks of the experience. Materials are provided by Everyday Democracy, a national resource for similar programs throughout the country (www.everyday-democracy.org).

The next session starts Monday, April 11 and runs through Monday, May 9 from 6-8PM. Dinner is provided at the first session, and childcare is available. In order for the sessions to be most effective, we ask participants to commit to attending all five weeks. You must pre-register because we strive to make the groups equally diverse in age, gender and ethnicity. Contact Jayne Thorne for more information at thornej@stlukesumc.com or 846-3404 x358.

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MEMBERSHIP Become a Member The next Membership Class is Thursday, March 10, 6:30-9PM in the Parlor. Registration is encouraged and childcare is available upon request. Please contact Sylvia at 846-3404 x343 or forbess@ stlukesumc.com. Go from “attender” to “member,” no matter how long you’ve been coming to St. Luke’s.

MUSIC MINISTRIES Wanted: Men! The Chancel Choir is looking for several additional tenors and basses to join in the music-making, especially as we approach fantastic Lenten Concert and Holy Week/Easter repertoire. Rehearsals are Thursday evenings, choir experience helpful but not required. Those guys considering taking up the 'call' are welcome to sit in for a rehearsal by simply contacting membership coordinator Carol Tully at tully95@earthlink.net or director Mark Squire at squirem@ stlukesumc.com.

SINGLES MINISTRIES

(40+)

Singles Ballroom Dance Lessons

PERSONAL GROWTH WORKSHOP: “The Me I Want to Be”

Join our dance instructor, International Dance Champion Michael Fatyanov, as you learn all the moves you’ll need to dance the night away! See below for class listings, dates, times, and costs. Registration for this class is online for credit card (www.stlukesumc.com on the Singles page), or contact DeAnna Moran to register and pay with check or cash. For more information, contact DeAnna Moran at morand@stlukesumc.com.

Life is not about any particular achievement or experience.

The most important task of your life is not what you do, but who you become. God’s vision for your life is not just that you are saved by grace, but that you also learn to live by grace, flourishing with the Spirit flowing through you. This is your chance to experience true spiritual growth, maybe for the first time. In this six-week session, led by Chris Thornsberry, Associate Director of Adult Ministries, you’ll encounter a life-changing experience. Register for this class online on our Singles Ministry class page. Cost is $40 and includes a copy of John Ortberg’s book The Me I Want to Be and a Monvee Spiritual Growth Assessment Pack (together a $60 value). This group will meet on Wednesdays March 2-April 6 at 6PM in the Spiritual Life Center. Registration is required. Questions, contact Chris at thornsberryc@ stlukesumc.com.

INTERMEDIATE CLASS: Meets every Monday in March, 6:30-7:30PM in Fellowship Hall. $40/person.

BEGINNER CLASS: Meets every Monday in March,

7:30-8:30PM in Fellowship Hall. $40/person.

SOCIAL JUSTICE Social Justice Commission The mission of the Social Justice Commission is to raise awareness and understanding of current social issues and to ground them in community programs to transform the world. Members of St. Luke’s are invited to participate in the open meetings scheduled monthly. Please call Jayne Thorne at 846-3404 x358, or look on the website for meeting dates and times.

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SPIRITUAL LIFE CENTER To pre-register for a class, go to www.stlukesumc.com/getinvolved/classes, or contact DeAnna Moran at 317-846-3404 x367 or morand@stlukesumc.com. Oasis = Oasis Bookstore and Gift Shop located inside St. Luke’s. Ongoing classes listed in the Extra Section.

The Spiritual Life Center programs are open to all interested people without regard to their faith or religion.

Indoor Friday Labyrinth Walk ALL CHURCH

Enriched Holy Week Prayer Vigil The Holy Thursday–Good Friday Prayer Vigil has been extended to include an opportunity to walk the Stations of the Cross. Each station represents an event along Jesus' path on Holy Thursday to Easter. In addition, the 24 hour Prayer Vigil will be enriched with scheduled times for chanting, meditation, labyrinth walking and drumming.

Thursday, April 21, 8PM–Good Friday, April 22, 8PM, Fellowship Hall. Sign up for individual prayer time (morand@ stlukesumc.com, 846-3404x367). Find a detailed schedule of events in the upcoming April Communion Monthly.

PRAYER & MEDITATION

Jesus and Prayer Workshop with Guest Speakers Susan Ruach & Sarah Wilke The purpose of this workshop is to help people grow in their relationship with God through looking at what Jesus taught about prayer and how Jesus prayed. We will also be exploring some ways of praying that have been developed by Jesus' followers. Come ready to learn, be encouraged, and to be in touch with God. Workshop leaders come to us from Nashville, TN. They are Rev. Dr. Susan Ruach, Director of Connectional and Spiritual Leadership at the General Board of Discipleship [GBOD] of the UMC, and Sarah Wilke, Publisher of The Upper Room, the Methodist Church’s daily devotional. Sunday, March 27, 2-4PM in Fellowship Hall.

Registration suggested. No fee.

Developing Skills for Meditation—RESCHEDULED If you have always wanted to learn to meditate but aren’t sure how to begin, here is the class for you. Learn a simple, holistic way to quiet your heart, calm your mind and listen deeply. You will receive great benefits by giving 10-20 minutes a day to this discipline. Bring a blanket. Mondays, April 4-18, 1-2:30PM in the Spiritual Life Center. Registration required, limited to 12; no fee. Taught by Barbara Burke, Ed.D.

Lenten Devotional Booklets The Spiritual Life Center invites you to pick up a copy of our in-house Lenten Devotional, “The Jesuses I Have Known.” The clergy, staff, members and lay people sitting next to you on Sunday mornings have written from their hearts to deepen your Lenten experience. Booklets (1000 copies) are available at the Welcome Center in the Narthex and in the main office. No charge.

Make space in your busy schedule for a time of meditation and prayer on our indoor canvas labyrinth. Fridays, 5-7PM, Fellowship Hall or N103/104.

Candles, meditative music, a host/ hostess available to answer questions.

Walking Prayer is the perfect way to end your work week and begin your weekend.

WORKSHOPS, CLASSES & RETREATS

Happy Yoga Workshops If you are looking for physical and emotional healing, greater flexibility, strength, peace and happiness, this series of Happy Yoga workshops is for you. Each themed class will help you explore a way to get happier or get rid of something that’s making you unhappy. Partici-pants will be able to keep track of their spiritual journey through a free electronic Happy Yoga journal or an $18 paper-based journal, both with 52 exercises. Everyone, including non-participants, is welcome to download the free e-book “Happy Sutra: 52 Surprising Ways to Get Happier” and the paywhat-you-want electronic journal at www.happysutra.org.

Happy Yoga is a lighthearted, demystified class for all levels, and Robin Howard’s special blend of yoga styles, uplifting and relaxing playlists, and wisdom from sages old and new will become your favorite time of the week. No experience required. Everybody welcome! Class sets of three, $30.

Register to ensure your spot but drop-ins are welcome. First series begins Thursdays, March 10, 17 & 24, 6:45-8PM in N103/104. Please bring a yoga mat or a small blanket.

Women’s Conquering Stress Mini Series Back by popular demand, an opportunity to prevent or alleviate stress. Participants will learn how to balance demands and resources and the “thought” management strategies to prevent unjustified guilt, dysfunctional anxiety, frustration and chronic anger/irritation. Learn how to maintain a grateful attitude and positive situation focusing in the most difficult circumstances. Sessions build on each other so attendance at each session is HIGHLY recommended. Taught by Brenda Lyons PhD, and Jane Backer PhD, Tuesdays, April 12-26, 6:30-9PM in E105. Registration required by April 4; fee $100. Maximum 12 women.

W W W. S T L U K E S U M C . C O M

CONVERSATION ABOUT

Religion, Meaning, Ethics & Ideas Where can you find discussion about religion in America, the wisdom of Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh, the effect of torture on democracies, or how TV shows are modern-day parables? These topics and many more are discussed every Sunday morning in the Spiritual Life Center, 9:30-10:30AM. The time together is based on the American Public Media show “Being” (formerly “Speaking of Faith”). Meet new people, learn about current trends and ideas and energize yourself for the week to come. Led by Betty Brandt.

HEALING MINISTRY

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Pilgrimage Healing Process Training If you feel called to bring the healing power of God’s love to others, you may be interested in being trained in the Pilgrimage Healing Process, a hands-on-healing modality. The training includes background of the Process, learning the steps, being both receiver and giver and a discussion of your roles as healer. Experiencing a healing session in preparation for the training is required. Call 846-3404 x442 to schedule an appointment. Contact Betty Brandt, brandtb@stlukesumc.com, 846-3404 x339, to express interest or ask questions. Saturday, March 19, 8:30AM-4PM in the Spiritual Life Center. Training team led by Sandy Clark.

Registration required, $50 deposit due 3/11/11. Total fee: $150 includes manual, DVD and lunch.

Healing of America Documentary After reading T. R. Reid’s book The Healing of America, the Sunrise Book Study wants to expand the conversation by inviting the congregation to view and discuss the Frontline documentary based on the book. Join us to learn more about our healthcare system and the systems of other industrialized countries. Co-sponsored by the Health Ministry. Monday, April 11, 7-9PM in Fellowship Hall. No fee or registration. Donations appreciated.

Reiki I Learn the ancient healing art of Reiki (pronounced ray-key), a healing technique that can support the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Experience balance and harmony in your body, mind and spirit. Embrace inner peace and release tension. Taught by Sandy Clark, Sunday, March 6, 1-6PM in N103/104.

Registration required by calling Sandy, 317-253-8587. Fee: $150.

Reiki II Open to all those who have completed Reiki I. Taught by Sandy Clark, Sunday, March 20, 1-6PM in N103/104. Registration required by calling Sandy, 317-253-8587. Fee: $150.

Magnified Healing Magnified Healing™ utilizes meditation, breath, sound and movement to actively and consciously engage the seeker in his/her own healing process. This class is for those on their own personal healing journey as well as for those experienced practitioners wishing to take their work to another level. Taught by Sandy Clark, Tuesday, March 15, 6-9:30PM in C110. Register with Sandy at 317-253-8587. Fee: $75 plus $30 for materials.

SPIRITUALITY AND THE ARTS

Studio 3 Art Ministry for Artists and Dabblers Come meet others who are interested in sharing spiritual and artistic interests while building an art community at St. Luke’s. Bring your favorite medium and spend the day working, sharing and laughing. Thursdays, 9AM-4PM in C122. For questions or information, email Linda Etherton at j.etherton1@juno.com.

Crochet Guild If you are interested in learning to crochet or enriching your crocheting experience, please come meet with other enthusiasts. Expect special charity projects and fellowship.

Saturday, March 6, and every 1st Saturday after that, 10AMNoon in E107/109. No registration. For more information contact Edie Huffman, at johnediehuffman@hotmail.com, or 228-0496.

Art Gallery Exhibits For the month of MARCH see Jenny Elkin’s show of Women from the Bible for Women's History Month. In APRIL, the Visual Arts Ministry will support our church-wide Lenten theme with a “Jesuses I Have Known” exhibit.

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UNITED METHODIST MEN Men’s Breakfast

Theology Unplugged

All men are invited to the United Methodist Men’s monthly breakfast on Saturday, March 5 at 8AM in Fellowship Hall.

We offer a hearty breakfast, fellowship, sharing and an interesting program. Back by popular demand, our speaker will be Ed Siegel, former Pike High School Basketball Coach. Ed will share stories, history and insights into the NCAA and IHSAA basketball programs, just in time for March Madness. This event will be entertaining and full of fellowship. Come join us the first Saturday of every month.

Please call Jim Thorne at 255-8562 to RSVP. This will assist in planning and allow for the correct amount of food.

"Tiptoeing Around the Real Jesus.” Most of the time, we tend to think of Jesus like Mr. Rogers. He's a nice guy whose message boiled down to we should be nice to others.

But often Jesus wasn't nice—he said and did things that were pretty provocative. Why did he toss the moneychangers out of the temple? Why did he pick fights with the Pharisees? And more importantly, why do we avoid talking about the "not-so-nice" things that Jesus did? Join us at the Rusty Bucket at 8:30PM on Wednesday, March 16 as we discuss these and other questions about the "other" Jesus. RSVP to Matt Roop at mroop@capcityfence.com or 538-5931.

Men's Softball A wise man once said, "There's no crying in baseball!" Well, that's why we have a softball team!

We will play games on Sunday afternoons from April through June in a non-competitive league; we will practice a couple times in March. We would love to have you join us! Let Nate know if you are interested so he can reserve your spot on the roster—n8withan8@gmail.com or call 340-7115. Let's play ball!

UNITED METHODIST WOMEN Food Drive

Souper Sunday for Haiti

The semi-annual UMW Food Drive will take place throughout the month of March. Items collected in this drive support the following local food pantries: First Baptist Church, Vida Nueva Hispanic Ministries Food Pantry, Fletcher Place Community Center, and Brightwood Community Center.

Shopping lists of the most sought after items are located online and at the Information Desk. Please place donated items in the collections bins located in the West Passage marked “Food Pantry.” Monetary donations can be made through the church office or offering plate—make checks payable to St. Luke’s and put “Food Pantry” on the memo line. For questions about the food drive, or if you would like to volunteer to deliver pantry goods, please contact Beth Edwards-Goff at beth.edwardsgoff@yahoo.com or 625-2395.

Thank you for your continued support of our food drives and your generosity to help feed the hungry in our community.

The ladies of UMW are conducting a fundraiser for Haiti projects this year with another “Souper Sunday” on March 13. Soup sales were so successful last year we are again asking all the cooks of the congregation to put on their aprons and make the soups we will be selling. Soup containers and recipes will be provided at a sign-up table in the West Passage on February 27 and March 6. You will have the convenience of making them in advance as they are to be frozen immediately after they are made. If you have any questions or comments on this project, call Elizabeth Keller at 594-9544 or Kathie Clemenz at 845-5655.

Spring Tea Join the women of UMW in Fellowship Hall the afternoon of March 12 for our annual Spring Tea. Arrive at 1:30PM to socialize and enjoy a tasty light lunch with tea—all free of charge. It will be a chance for you to relax, unwind, and listen to a skilled gardener give tips and information in preparation for the much anticipated spring season.

Please reserve your spot by emailing Jessica Mason at jsmason@indy.rr.com by March 5. All are welcome!

UMW Reading Group We've come a long way, baby! From bra burning to birth control, the women's movement in America has taken us all on a rollercoaster ride. We will revisit this recurring theme in our conversations by discussing When Everything Changed: The Amazing Story of American Women from 1960 to the Present by Gail Collins. Ms. Collins is a New York Times columnist who provides a comprehensive account of the last 50 years of women's history—which should lead to some lively discussion! We'll meet on Monday, March 28, 7-8:30PM in the Parlor. Newcomers and one-time visitors are always welcome to join us. For information, contact Jennifer Todd at jtoddosu@aol.com.

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Cookbook

Race for the Cure

The UMW cookbook is still available for purchase in the church office during regular business hours. The cookbook contains over 500 recipes generously donated by members of the congregation, their family and friends. Cost: $15, proceeds benefit various UMW sponsored organizations.

Mark your calendars—Saturday, April 16 is the annual Race for the Cure in downtown Indianapolis. Registration is open online at www.komenindy.org. To join our team, select St. Luke’s United Methodist Women under “find a team.” Please join us for this worthy and inspirational cause!

UMW CIRCLE MEETINGS

Eve Circle

Mary Magdalene Circle

Eve Circle invites all mothers with young children to unite with other mothers through support, faith, missions, fun and socializing. Tuesday, March 1, we will be going off-site touring the Lucille Raines Home and going out to lunch.

Please arrive on time, at 9:30AM, and pack a lunch for your little ones. We will return to the church by 12:30PM. Join us again on Tuesday, March 15 for a class on Nutrition for Moms and Children led by Sarah Stout of Reinventing Wellness. ••• Eve Circle is a UMW group of mothers with young children that meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month (with a few exceptions) from 9:30-11:30AM in the Parlor. Free childcare is available by contacting evecirclechildcare@yahoo.com. For more information regarding Eve Circle, contact Jessica Mason at evecircle@yahoo.com.

The Mary Magdalene Circle will meet on March 9 at 7PM in the Spiritual Life Center. Phyllis Newton will present her ministry at the women's prison. New members and guests are welcome. You may call co-chairs Nancy Keller at 842-5909 or Elizabeth Keller at 594-9544 if you have questions.

New Life Circle Attention Single Women. . . Join Amy Barnes, MA MBA LMHC, and New Life Circle for a powerful, potentially lifechanging evening on Tuesday, March 15 at 7PM in the Spiritual Life Center for “Step into Your Full Power.” God did not create you to play small. We have each been blessed with a unique set of talents and gifts which we can use to bless both ourselves and the world. Join us in dreaming big, both individually and together. For additional information, contact Nancy at 255-1226 or Cathy at 334-7821.

New Life Circle is a gathering of single, divorced and widowed women of all ages.

Sarah Circle On Monday, March 21 at 1PM we will put together Easter Bags for the children of the IUMCH. Sarah Circle is a group of “mature” ladies with diverse backgrounds. The group meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 1PM in the Parlor.

Sarah Circle is also in charge of the funeral dinners that take place at the church. For information contact Karen Porter at 849-4524 or porter.joe@sbcglobal.net or contact Pat Amrhien at 841-3873 or amrhien1945@att.net.

White Cross Guild White Cross Guild provides volunteers to participate in activities supporting Methodist Hospital. Meets at Methodist Medical Plaza, 151 Pennsylvania Parkway (103rd/Meridian) in the first floor community room. They meet the 2nd Monday of each month from 9AM-2PM (next meeting: March 14) to prepare gauze squares used in surgery (bring your lunch). They also meet the 4th Tuesday of each month (next meeting: March 22) from 1-3PM to stuff and sew heart pillows for patients who have had heart or lung surgery. Contact Marguerite Moehn (873-1956) or Barb Querry (879-0543).

WORLD MISSIONS Upcoming Work Projects The following is partial listing of work projects you can participate in this year. For a complete listing, visit the World Missions page at www.stlukesumc.com, or pick up a brochure in the West Passage in the World Missions area. Questions? Contact Jan Nichols at 846-3404 x364 or nicholsj@stlukesumc.com.

April 2011

Summer 2011

July 10–15

Manna from Heaven, Myra, Kentucky Delivery and Community Day Jan Nichols, 846-3404 x364

Rushville, Indiana, Changing Footprints Construction/Humanitarian Dates/time TBA

April 17-24

June 26–July 2

Port-au-Prince, Haiti Three Angels Construction/Humanitarian LEADER: Sue Nonweiler, 297-8909, snonweiler@aol.com.

COST: $1,300

“Tree of Life” – Rosebud, SD Native American Family Work Project LEADER: Kathie Clemenz, 845-5655, kkclemenz@sbcglobal.net COST: $300 (+transportation)

Memphis, TN Memphis Family Shelter Construction maintenance/Humanitarian CO-LEADERS: Al Dalton, 849-7736, AlDalton1@gmail.com and Adele Hoskin, 299-3302, ahoskin@iquest.net COST: $150

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YOUNG ADULT MINISTRIES MOVE: Spring Retreat

Facebook

The Young Adult Spring Retreat, MOVE, takes place April 8 and 9. We’ll be meeting up with other young adults from the Indianapolis area and around the state at Fishers UMC for a time of spiritual growth led by Bishop Michael Coyner, worship led by J.J. Heller (www.jjheller.com), and a time of fellowship. The retreat starts at 6:30PM on Friday and ends Saturday at 6PM. Cost is $30/person. For more information or to register, please email Chris at thornsberryc@stlukesumc.com.

Are you on Facebook? Good, so are we! Find us at “St. Luke’s UMC—Young Adult Community.”

Join us for online discussion, updates, and interactive conversations.

College Age Ministries’ Visits MARCH 14: Taylor University & Ball State University APRIL 4: Indiana University APRIL 18: Purdue University.

If you are college age and would like to connect with others in this age group, or keep up to date with what is happening, check out our Facebook group—St. Luke’s UMC College Students.

YOUTH MINISTRIES 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!

condos to artwork to baskets to novelty and gift items to restaurant and gift certificates. Join us in the Great Hall for food, live music, fellowship, great items, and great services provided by teens!

Register for any event at www.stlukesumc.com/youth.

30 Hour Famine March 11-12, 7PM Friday-7PM Saturday at the Lodge Starting at Noon on Friday, March 11, we will do a 30-hour fast to raise funds to beat world hunger! At 7PM we will all meet at the Lodge (bring the money you raised), hang out, learn about world hunger through experiential activities and games, spend the night at the Lodge, hang out Saturday, and break the fast together with a meal at 6PM on Saturday, March 12. This is a great service event for a great cause, and it's also a fun chance to hang with friends at the Lodge! Sign up today, and invite a friend. Contact youth ministry staff for more information and details.

Hire a Teen 2011/Silent Auction We are excited to announce our 2011 Hire a Teen/Silent Auction to be held on Sunday, March 20, 9AM-1PM in the Great Hall. Much of the proceeds of this fundraiser will help teens go on summer mission trips, including our 29-person trip to Fondwa, Haiti. Youth Ministry is asking for help in the area of obtaining auction items, as well as your participation on March 20. We are excited about this year's emphasis on hiring teens—spring is just around the corner, and students will represent their own talents and skills by offering their services for a donation to their scholarship fund. Auction items in the past have ranged from vacation

UPCOMING EVENTS MARCH 26: Jr. High Activity to Great Times

Meet at the Lodge at 6PM and return around 9:30.

Cost is $15. Payment and registration is due by 3/13.

Register at www.stlukesumc.com/youth.

MARCH 27: Eastern Tennessee $145 payment due.

West Virginia $130 payment due.

APRIL 30-MAY 1: Jr. High Spring Retreat to Bradford Woods.

Cost is $95. Register at www.stlukesumc.com/youth.

For questions, contact Ryan McGee, 846.3404 x346

SUMMER 2011 MISSION TRIPS JUNE 19-24: Jr. High to Newport, TN. Cost is $440.

Parent meeting: 6/8/11. Limited availability.

For questions or to register, contact Ryan McGee at 846-3404 x346.

JUNE 26-JULY 1: Sr. High to Lincoln County, WV.

Cost is $450. Parent meeting: 6/8/11. For questions or to register, contact Stephanie Eft at 846-3404 x369.

JULY 9-16: Fondwa, Haiti. Cost is $1500.

W W W. S T L U K E S U M C . C O M

The following is a listing of essential info and on-going classes/events.

WORSHIP

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

Our Prayer Chapel (located inside Robertson Chapel next to the Spiritual Life Center) is available for silent prayer and meditation when the church is open. A pastor is always on call in case of emergencies; call 846-3404 to leave a message after hours.

E-MAIL: Need to email someone on our staff? Easy. Our email is our last name followed immediately by first initial, followed by @stlukesumc.com.

Sunday Worship Services 8:15, 9:30 & 11AM, Sanctuary with Dr. Kent Millard • Communion is served the first Sunday of the month at all three services and is available to all persons.

• St. Luke’s Orchestra plays the third Sunday of the month.

• Baptisms take place the fourth Sunday of every month.

Family Fuel, Every Sunday morning at 10:45AM in the Great Hall. A fun, interactive worship service for elementary-aged children and their families to experience together. Led by Rev. Jamalyn Peigh Williamson.

IN GENERAL: When you need something, our outstanding front desk staff can direct your call to the appropriate person.

But here are some tips for some of the most frequently requested information:

Taizé, Third Sundays of the month, 5-5:45PM by the baptismal font in the Sanctuary with selected members of St. Luke’s Chancel Choir and Rev. Marsha Hutchinson. A service of peace and candlelight with silence, scriptures, prayer, and beautiful music.

I NEED

CONTACT

Adult Class Registration

DeAnna Moran

Later@St. Luke’s, Sundays, 6PM in Robertson Chapel

Childcare Needs for Meetings/Events (charges may apply)

Kristi Chamberlain

with Dr. Marion Miller. Come hear contemporary Christian, gospel and jazz music featuring the Later Band and Vocals, along with a challenging, thought-provoking message. Holy Communion served every Sunday.

Member Care/Death/ Mary Katherine Schnitz Stephen Ministry Request/Hospitalization Membership/Births/Address/ Phone Change

Sylvia Forbes

Reserve a Room/Request A/V

Beth Lammers or Carol Helmus

Weddings/Special Event Coordination

Carol Helmus

Baptisms

Bobbi Main-Jackson

Pledge Balance/Information

Finance Office

Oasis Bookstore

Sharon Holyoak

The Garden is an off-site satellite ministry of St. Luke’s providing non-traditional worship in a comfortable, casual setting. Dr. Linda McCoy, Pastor.

The Garden at Beef & Boards: 8:15, 9:15 & 10:15AM every Sunday; music provided by The Good Earth Band.

The Garden at Oak Hill: 10:15AM every Sunday; music provided by The Oak Hill Band. Rev. Stan Abell, Campus Pastor.

The Garden Unplugged: 9AM every Sunday at Oak Hill with Rev. Stan Abell. Begins August 22.

S U P P O R T I N G T H E M I N I S T R I E S O F S T. L U K E ’ S U M C

Inspirational Gifts, Jewelry & Books Conveniently located inside St. Luke’s UMC Sharon Holyoak, Manager Gift Registry Available

OASIS HOURS:

10AM - 4PM SUNDAY 9AM - 1PM

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY

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ADULT EDUCATION & SPIRITUAL LIFE CENTER New participants welcome!

A Listening Heart: Bible Study for Women with Young Children

Thursday Afternoon Book Study

2nd and 4th Mondays, 7-9PM in, E212. Childcare is available upon request. In early 2011, Listening Heart will focus on the book of Acts. This study will be led by Jamalyn Peigh Williamson. New members always welcome. For info, contact Ann Smith, 569-1359 or carmelsmith@yahoo.com, or Kari Miller, 873-8606 or kkmiller01@sbcglobal.net.

Thursdays, 1-2:30PM, Parlor. Join this afternoon group to read and discuss a diverse selection of reading materials. The group also enjoys lunches, watching movies, taking field trips and celebrating birthdays together. March’s book is It Is in the Beauty of the Lilies by John Updike. Class facilitator is Phyllis Bybee. For more information, contact Sylvia Forbes at 846-3404 or forbess@stlukesumc.com.

Empty Nesters Every Sunday (except holidays), 9:30-10:30AM, Parlor. Read, watch, and discuss contemporary and traditional books and videos. We also gather once a month for social activities. For more information, contact Ann Townsend at 842-0464.

New Beginnings

Mothers of Young Children Book Club 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30–11:30AM, E105. Participants in this group read approximately one piece of current fiction or non-fiction per month. Childcare is available upon request for $5 per family. For book list, to request childcare, or for info contact Regan Summers at regansummers@hotmail.com.

Sundays, Sept.-May (except holidays), 9:30-10:30AM in E213.

A self-led couples class that meets weekly and discusses a variety of topics. We have regular social gatherings as well!

For more information, contact Nathan or Paula Montgomery at n8withan8@gmail.com, or 340-7115.

Thursdays, 7-8:30PM, Spiritual Life Center. This study discusses innovative and challenging spiritual books. Contact JoAnne Waeltz, 872-0895, jwaeltz@comcast.net, for current title.

Flo Hardy Bible Study

Ongoing “Being” Discussion

1st & 3rd Mondays, 9AM in the Spiritual Life Center. Join others in coffee, prayer, reading and discussion of selected Biblical texts...just like we did in the "good ole days!" (with occasional “non good ole days” videos). Led by Rev. Marsha Hutchinson.

Every Sunday morning at 7AM on FM90/1, Krista Tippett interviews spiritual leaders. A community of “Being (formerly Speaking of Faith)” fans meets at 9:30AM in the Spiritual Life Center to discuss that morning’s program. The show is available on the prior Thursday at www.onbeing.org.

Tuesday Afternoon Women's Spiritual Book Study This group focuses on non-fiction books with spiritual themes every Tuesday afternoon, 1-2:30PM in the Spiritual Life Center.

Contact JoAnne Waeltz, 872-0895, jwaeltz@comcast.net.

Sunrise Book Study 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.

George Vickery Men’s Discussion Group Wednesdays, 8AM at Shapiro’s. Discuss current events or the latest book of interest you have read. For more information, call Bob Waeltz at 872-0895.

New Earth Community

Ongoing Meditation Group Beginners and experienced meditators are welcome to join in 1/2 hour discussion followed by 1/2 hour of Christian meditation. You will find support for your practice, new ideas and a community of others who welcome silence. Led by Merri Leffel, Mondays, 6:30-7:30PM in the Spiritual Life Center. No fee or registration.

Prayer Shawl Ministry Tuesdays, 1-3PM in W120. 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. Tasks for non-knitters too. Contact Donna Cripe (317-280-7806).

Kent Millard’s Book Study Wednesdays, 10-11:30AM in the Parlor. Join this group for a time of prayer and fellowship as well as the sharing of insights. After the holidays, we will read The Misunderstood Jew

by Amy-Jill Levine.

Wednesday Morning Bible Study Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30AM, The Forum at The Crossing. An off-site senior adult Bible Study. Led by Terri Coe, Mary Katherine Schnitz, Chris Thornsberry and several other St. Luke’s lay members.

SUNDAY MORNING CLASSES

Empty-Nesters Sundays (except holidays), 9:30-10:30AM in the Parlor. Read, watch, and discuss contemporary and traditional books and videos. We also gather once a month for social activities. For more information, contact Ann Townsend at 842-0464.

W W W. S T L U K E S U M C . C O M

New Perspectives on Sunday Morning

Ongoing Qigong Classes

Sundays, 11AM-Noon in E105. This class explores the work of religious scholars who are giving voice to reimagining the essence of Christianity. Bring your questions about the church, religion and faith to this non-judgmental conversation in search of alternative answers and paths to experiences of the Holy. Scott Severns and Bruce Roberts, Leaders.

Qigong (Chee-Gung) is an amazing set of gentle exercises similar to Tai Chi which help to enhance and maintain one’s overall health. It is a self-healing practice used to recover from illness, relieve stress, lower blood pressure, increase blood circulation and reduce chronic pain. Thursdays, 10:30-11:30AM in Luke’s Lodge, upstairs.

No registration; $10/session. Taught by Amy Barr.

New Beginnings

Aikido Training

Sundays, 9:30AM in E213. A self-led couples’ class that meets Sunday mornings. Contact Nathan or Paula Montgomery for information: n8withan8@gmail.com or 340-7115.

This discipline uses martial training as a means of character development rather than fighting prowess.

Open to men and women. Come observe a class, or email through the Web site at www.indianapolisaikikai.org. Adult classes Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 7-9PM, Saturdays, 8-10AM. Classes for children ages 6-15, Saturdays, 9:45-10:30AM. All classes in N103/104.

PRAYER & MEDITATION

Guided Meditations Kent Millard, Scott Semester, Barbara Burke and Carol Ernst have recorded guided meditations to help you develop your meditation skills. Just go to www.stlukesumc.com and google “Guided Meditations,” then click on “Prayer and Meditation.” You will be able to hear and participate as often as you want to, or download onto your iPod or CD. If you would like to purchase a CD, they are available in Oasis for $10.

“Drum On” Circle Live with Vibrancy, Rhythm and Passion. All are invited to experience an hour of drumming every 4th Wednesday, March 23. Led by Dane McCullough, Modular Building, 6:30-7:30PM. Drums are provided or bring your own. No experience necessary.

CARE MINISTRIES Stephen Ministry Stephen Ministry is a lay ministry designed to support someone in time of crisis or difficulty. Stephen Ministers are trained to be good listeners. They are nonjudgmental friends. If you would like to speak to a Stephen Minister or would like more information about the program, please contact Mary Katherine Schnitz at 846-3404 x 365 or schnitzm@stlukesumc.com, or see the St. Luke’s website under Member Care.

Chronic Pain Support Group BODY / MIND / SPIRIT

Ongoing Integral Hatha Daytime Yoga Mondays, March 7-April 25, 7:30 & 9:30AM; and Thursdays, March 10-April 28, 8:30AM in N101/102. $96 or Walk-ins/$15 for either session. Registration suggested, taught by Marsha Pappas. Classes continue on May 9 & 12.

“Pay What You Can” Happy Yoga Open to all, regardless of your finances or yoga experience. Find your strength and happiness through poses, breath and meditation. Taught by Robin Howard. Mondays and Thursdays, 5:30-6:30PM in N103/104. No registration or fee; donations appreciated. Bring a mat AND blanket.

Monday, March 21, 6-7:30PM in N101/102. This is 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 844-2903 or margaret.L.frazer@pfizer.com.

Diabetes Support Group Meets the first Tuesday of the month from 7-8PM, E213.

Next meetings: March 1 and April 5. This is a laidback, easy-going group open to learning and sharing through exercise, diet and prayer. Contact Debbie Allen Wagner at 796-2189.

Family Support Group Wednesdays, March 9 and April 13 in the Conference Room, both meetings at 6:30PM. The group offers emotional and spiritual support for families who have a member abusing drugs or alcohol.

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Adult ADD Support Group

CHILDREN’S MUSIC

Tuesdays, March 8 & 22, 7-8:30PM in E213. St. Luke’s offers support for adults with ADD. For information call Mary Katherine at 846-3404 x365.

Vocal and handbell groups are available for children of various ages. At least one Children’s Music group sings the second Sunday of each month in the Sanctuary at the 9:30 and 11AM services. All groups sing at various services and programs throughout the year, including the St. Luke’s Christmas Concert, the 3PM Christmas Eve Service, Palm Sunday and outreach programs. For information, contact Debra Nethercott, Children’s Music Director, at nethercottd@stlukesumc.com or 846-3404 x329, or visit www.stlukesumc.com.

Jesse’s Street Meets the 3rd Monday of every month, 6:30-8PM in the Parlor.

Next meeting: March 21. For parents who have a child with a physical, mental or emotional disability. Register for childcare by contacting Sylvia Forbes. Leaders: Kevin & Hillary McCarley, 850-1637.

All rehearsals are held in E208.

Care Committee If you know of someone, confined to their home or health care center, call Mary Katherine at 846-3404 x365. The Care Committee makes monthly visits.

GENESIS (ages 4 - kindergarten) Rehearsal: Sundays 8:50 - 9:20AM ELEMENTARY (grades 1 - 5) Rehearsal: Sundays 10:25 - 11:15AM

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY Family Fuel If you are seeking an opportunity to worship with your children, come to Family Fuel on Sunday mornings at 10:45AM in the Great Hall. This worship service is geared for kids with an emphasis on parents learning with them. Join Cammy, Mrs. F, Sam, Vinny, Grandpa Henry, Mitchell and the rest of the clubhouse gang. There is great music, lots of laughter and yes, donuts! If you would like to get involved with the behind the scenes of Family Fuel, please email familyfuel@stlukesumc.com if you want to join the team.

What if I am an 11:00 attendee?? If your family normally attends 11AM worship, we ask that you bring your child to the Great Hall at 10:45. You are welcome to stay with them until worship begins at 11:00, or stay until 11:30 when your child will go to Small group after Family Fuel ends and you can go to worship to hear the sermon. If you are not able to come at 10:45, you can still bring your child to the Great Hall at 11:00 and there will be someone who can take him or her in and get them settled. The service is very laid back and we want to be flexible to your family’s needs.

ELEMENTARY BELL CHOIR (grades 3 - 5) Rehearsal: Sundays 11:15AM - Noon CRESCENDO! (grades 6 - 9) Rehearsal: Tuesdays 7-8PM CHORISTERS (grades 3 - 9 by audition) Rehearsal: Tuesdays 6:30-7:15PM VOICE FOR LIFE (grades 3 - 9) Class: Tuesdays 6-6:30PM

FELLOWSHIP Elderberries Euchre The monthly Elderberries Euchre party will be Saturday, March 19 at 7PM in the Parlor. Please bring a snack to share. Contact Adra Wheeler at 253-4914 or 846-3404 with questions.

GRIEF MINISTRIES (H.U.G.S.)—Healing Under Grief Support. When we lose a loved one, our highly competitive society often values the “quick fix” to keep up the frenzied pace and urges us to “get over it and move on.” However, in order to journey through the grief process with grace and healthy functioning, human beings need to take time to learn about grief and the factors that complicate our natural responses. It is important to find meaning in loss and to find connection with others who are walking the same journey.

W W W. S T L U K E S U M C . C O M

Dad’s Grief Group for Loss of a Child

Sunday Night Singles

Meets Tuesday mornings for breakfast at 7AM at the Hilton Indianapolis North Hotel, 8181 N. Shadeland Ave. SECOND LOCATION/DAY: Thursdays, 7AM at Bob Evans (135 and Main St., Greenwood).

Join Singles before, during and after the Later@St. Luke’s worship services (Sundays, 6PM in Robertson Chapel). Contact Chris Thornsberry, Associate Director of Adult Education at thornsberryc@ stlukesumc.com, or Dr. Marion Miller at millerm@stlukesumc.com.

HOPE For pregnancy loss or loss of a baby. Meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7PM, Spiritual Life Center. Call Rev. Marsha Hutchinson, 846-3404 x315 or Jim & Marci Harenberg, 705-0771. ••• We are now taking orders for family name plaques to be placed in the HOPE Memorial Garden.

Mom's Group following the Loss of a Young Adult Child Call Rev. Marsha Hutchinson for more information at 846-3404 x315.

HUGS Group (for fellowship and support following the loss of a husband, wife or significant other) Meets Sundays, 2-4PM in the Parlor. The group goes out for light supper following the meeting (optional). Call Rev. Marsha Hutchinson for details at 846-3404 x315.

Footprints An opportunity for lay people who would like to become a mentor to someone who is recently bereaved.

For information call Rev. Marsha Hutchinson, 8463404 x 315.

AFTER Later@St. Luke’s Fun Filled Activities (2nd and 4th Sundays).

MARCH 13: Rusty Bucket (86th St.) MARCH 27: Chipotle (86th and Westfield)

Singles Café Join us every Wednesday for fantastic guest speakers and great presentations. Our doors open at 7PM and the program begins at 7:30.

MARCH 2: Ballroom Dance Preview Night

with Michael Fatyanov MARCH 9: Facing Your Fears, Part II with Lisa Ralph MARCH 16: Dinner (The Aristocrat) MARCH 26: Tech Talk with Wes Street MARCH 30: Stock Market Discussion with Carl Norden

Singles Euchre Social Join us the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month for our Singles Euchre Social. We meet in the Parlor at 6:30PM for light snacks, euchre, and lots of fun!

Prizes are given away to the top hands. $3 admission for this evening. For more information, please contact Chris Thornsberry at thornsberryc@stlukesumc.com.

Volleyball

SINGLES

Volleyball meets every Wednesday at 6:30PM, and Friday at 6:30PM in the Great Hall. The cost to play is $2.

For info, email Tim Adams at timmytown@msn.com.

Singles Sunday Morning Gathering

Toastmasters

Join us each Sunday morning at 11AM in E107/109 for our Singles small group, The Gathering. Singles 40 and up meet together to learn more about the scripture, study spiritual books, share stories, and journey through life together. This class is led by Sandy Harlan, Associate Director of Clergy Services for the Indiana Conference of the United Methodist Church.

Tuesdays, 7-8:30PM in N101/102. For more than 84 years Toastmasters International has offered effective ways to improve communication and leadership skills.

Guests attend for free. For info, call Cathy Baker at 334-7821, or visit www.stlukessinglestoastmasters.org.

Sunday Lunch Bunch Every Sunday, 12:30PM. Feel free to join us at these locations on the below dates for some fun, food, and fantastic times!

MARCH 6: On the Border (Castleton) MARCH 13: Paradise Café (N. Meridian) MARCH 20: Moe and Johnny’s (College Ave.) MARCH 27: Le Peeps (Keystone)

New Life Circle This group of single, divorced and widowed women of all ages meets one evening a month for a time of fellowship and informative, fun programs! See information about New Life Circle in the United Methodist Women section.

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SPORTS

WEEKLY JR.HIGH OFFERINGS (6-8th grade)

St. Luke's Men's Basketball Open Gym

Confirmation

For adult basketball enthusiasts (16+) who are looking to play friendly pick-up games on Thursday nights from 7:309:30PM in the Great Hall. Weekly emails are sent out to confirm players for the week. Please contact Chris Lemming at 595-8545 or email chris.lemming @anthem.com for more information.

Sundays, 9:30-10:30AM at the Lodge MARCH 6: Heart of Worship MARCH 13: Prayer MARCH 20: Dealing with Temptation MARCH 27: My Story

Volleyball

Sundays, 9:30-10:30AM at the Lodge. WIRED is our time for students in 6th-8th grade to connect to each other and to God. We want all students to feel welcome and encourage them to bring their friends! The mornings will introduce the day's topic focus around large group time, big music, big teaching and big fun.

This coed sport plays on Monday evenings in the Great Hall September-April. Players of all ages and abilities are welcome. Play is competitive but friendly—no spiking or over-hand serves. For more information contact Brent Scott at 875-9382 or brentsco@comcast.net. Cost is $20/player.

YOUNG ADULT MINISTRIES reFresh Meets every Sunday at 11AM in Luke’s Lodge. Journey together in a time of studying our faith, spirituality, the Bible and how these things apply to our everyday lives. Whether single, dating or married, join us! ••• For March, we’ll be wrapping up our series on “The Reason for God,” discussing some of the hardest questions our faith asks of us.

reNew Meets every other Tuesday at 7PM in Luke’s Lodge. Eat some snacks, talk about life, faith, spirituality, other topics and how they affect our everyday lives as young adults. Whether you’re single, dating or married, we’d love to have you.

YOUTH MINISTRIES We invite students 6th-12th grade to join us on Sunday mornings and Sunday nights. We offer a wide range of environments to connect with students.

For information or event registration, stop by Luke's Lodge (the youth building in the NE corner of church parking lot), visit www.stlukesumc.com/ministries/youth, or contact: Kevin Davis, Director of Youth Ministry davisk@stlukesumc.com; 846-3404 x326 Stephanie Eft, Associate Director of Youth Ministry efts@stlukesumc.com; 846-3404 x369 Ryan McGee, Associate Director of Youth Ministry mcgeer@stlukesumc.com; 846-3404 x346

MARCH MARCH MARCH MARCH MARCH

6: "Road Signs: One Way" 11-12: 30-Hour Famine 13: "Road Signs: Caution" 20: "Road Signs: Yield" 27: "Road Signs: Rest Stop"

Sundays, 6-7:30PM at the Lodge. AMPED is a time for 6th-8th grade students to focus in small groups. In the morning, students get introduced to the topic and connected at WIRED. Then in the evening, they get "amped," picking up where Sunday morning left off. It is a time designed to dive into more depth with the topic so that students can "amp" up and let their lives do the talking. Students experience games, small groups, teaching, and intimate and reflective worship.

WEEKLY SR.HIGH OFFERINGS (9-12th grade)

Wake Up with Starbucks at the Lodge Sundays, 9:30-10:30AM. This group will meet at the Lodge Cafe for those who want fellowship and discussion on the church campus. Each meeting includes Starbucks coffee, donuts and great discussion. Topics are to be determined, but may include current events, Bible passages and characters, sports, music and movies, etc. All senior high students and their friends are welcome.

Wake Up at the Big House Sundays, 9:30-10:30AM in N103/104 (main building). This Sunday morning offering will provide servant and leadership development for those who are planning on attending our summer mission trips.

LIVE! at the Lodge Sundays, 6-7:30PM. We will meet for games, fellowship, faith discussion and worship. Not sure about your faith and want to check out what it's all about a little more or hang out with friends? This is for you! On fire for God and wanting to dig deeper in your faith? This is for you! Experiencing doubts and wanting to discuss them more with friends you can trust?

This is for you! Let's LIVE life together and in tune!

   identity We are an open

community of Christians gathering to seek, celebrate, live and share the love of God for all creation.

vision We envision being transformed

by God and transforming the world into a compassionate, just, inclusive, Christ-like community.

method We experience God’s

unconditional love,

embrace hope,

grow in faith, and become empowered by our passion for ministry and service

in the world.

 .  Street • Indianapolis,   Telephone: -- • Fax: -- • www.stlukesumc.com

   :  ,  Dr. Kent Millard, Lead Pastor I am the church! You are the church! We are the church together!

All who follow Jesus, all around the world! Yes, we’re the church together!

As I make my final annual report to the people of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, I remember that God has called us to be the church together. The church is not primarily the pastors or the staff or the lay leaders or the members, but we are all the church together seeking to “love God and love our neighbors as ourselves” as Jesus taught us to do.

During each season of the year, we lift up certain themes to guide our journey together. In , we focused on themes of () “Now is the TIME,” where we recognized the small steps we can take today towards a better life for ourselves and our community; () “Spiritual Spring Training” when we focused on practicing some of the Spiritual Disciplines while seeking to walk closer with God; () “Turn the World Upside Down” where we looked at the activities, large and

small, that followers of Jesus engage in to be God’s agents in turning the world upside down; () “Summer T.I.M.E.,” a period to be intentional with how we experience renewal of mind, body and spirit; () “Back to Basics,” where we deepened our personal relationship with God and showed love to our neighbors; () “ Days of Giving,” an exciting journey together as we opened ourselves to authentic giving and receiving; and () “The Holy Family” when we delved into the different aspects of what a “holy” family looks like and how we all receive God’s unconditional love.

The activities of the past year reflect on these themes in a variety of ways. Here are the some of the highlights of how St. Luke’s continued to be Together In Ministry Everyday in .

Clergy Staff January  brought REV. DAVID WILLIAMSON and REV. JAMALYN PEIGH WILLIAMSON to our staff.

David provides key leadership to Family Ministries and Men’s Ministries, while Jamalyn serves as our Director of Children’s Ministries. They have both brought new energy and direction to these ministries as well as leading us in new outreach ministries in Haiti. We have been blessed by their first year here, and St. Luke’s has welcomed David and Jamalyn, along with their two children, with open arms.

DR. ADOLF HANSEN served St. Luke’s as Theologian in Residence, primarily responsible for enrolling

TOP:

David Williamson Jamalyn Peigh Williamson

BOTTOM:

new people to consider going into the ordained ministry or making a new decision about their lay ministry. During the past seven years, Dr. Hansen has lead about  people through this discernment process, and more than a dozen are serving as pastors or in the process of being ordained and serving as pastors. Dr. Hansen is also an accomplished teacher and administrator, and St. Luke’s has benefited greatly from his leadership in these areas as well. When Dr. Hansen retired from that position on December , our Staff Parish Relations Committee asked Rev. David Williamson to serve as our Executive Pastor. In that capacity, David works with our Executive Team, Lead Team and Clergy Team in helping St. Luke’s achieve the vision to which we have been called. He continues his work with Family and Men’s Ministries as well.

DR. LINDA MCCOY, pastor of The Garden, was awarded a clergy renewal grant by Lilly Endowment.

She spent a month in Ireland and Scotland to explore an interest in Celtic Spirituality, a month focusing on quality time with her family, and the final month in Colorado in a personal time of reflection and preparation. During her time of sabbatical, The Garden formed a Renewal Leave

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Team that coordinated a list of guest speakers to fill in for Linda, giving other clergy and laity important time with The Garden congregation, as well as two Gatherings of the Gardeners which began to identify the needs for the future and clarifying The Garden’s mission and vision. The Garden celebrated its  anniversary in .

We also thank God for REV. MARSHA HUTCHINSON’S leadership in counseling and pastoral care for our congregation, and DR. MARION MILLER’S leadership in helping St. Luke’s to become a more inclusive congregation. We thank God for REV. STAN ABELL’S leadership at Oak Hill Mansion in starting the Unplugged Service and the online congregation of the Bluevine Collective.

LEFT:

Haiti devastation

RIGHT: His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Conseco

Global Response

Feeding the Hungry

When the devastating earthquake hit HAITI in January , Rev. Jamalyn Peigh Williamson was in Fondwa, Haiti with about a dozen other people from St. Luke’s and Milroy United Methodist Church. We thank God for their safe return and pray for the , people who lost their lives and the thousands more who were injured.

St. Luke’s has raised about , for the INTERFAITH HUNGER INITIATIVE since this program began three years ago. The Interfaith Hunger Initiative brings together Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu and Sikh leaders in our community to help end hunger for children and families. In the Indianapolis area, IHI works with Gleaners through the Pantry Partners Program to provide more access to food for the increased number of hungry people who need it. And through Umoja, IHI has provided a school lunch to over  children in a county in Kenya who were previously going hungry and not attending school. Thanks to your help, we are now feeding their bodies and their minds. Through the two dozen IHI-affiliated congregations and public support, over , has been raised to date to achieve these goals.

In response to this disaster, the people of St. Luke’s raised over , to assist in rebuilding the lives of those who lost so much. St. Luke’s sent four other teams to minister to people in need in Haiti during , and more are traveling there in . Additionally, teams again spent weeks working in SIERRA LEONE, AFRICA, and the people of St. Luke’s fanned out across the United States working to make a significant difference in many communities.

The Interfaith Hunger Initiative co-sponsored a community-wide event where His Holiness the Dalai Lama, leader of the Tibetan Buddhists, spoke to over , people at Conseco Fieldhouse in May . People throughout our region were inspired to live more compassionate and loving lives through listening to one of the great leaders of compassion in our world. About , was raised by the Dalai Lama’s speech for the Interfaith Hunger Initiative.

Senator George McGovern, former the head of the FOOD FOR PEACE program and cosponsor of the Federal Government School Lunch program, also came to speak at St. Luke’s in June  to support our interfaith efforts to feed hungry people.

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Guest Speakers In March as part of our Spiritual Spring Training theme, bestselling author A.J. JACOBS (The Year of Living Biblically) shared with us his experience of trying to live by as many edicts of the Bible as he could for one year. Many groups were entertained and enlightened by coming together to read Jacobs’ book, and we were blessed by his unique reflections on some of the more obscure parts of the Bible and his endeavors to understand them from many points of view.

June saw the return of a St. Luke’s favorite, author PHIL GULLEY, who spoke about his latest book, If the Church Were Christian.

Again, many groups chose to read the book and engage in meaningful conversation around the sometimes controversial topics Gulley presents.

and Pakistan as a way to give girls an opportunity for an education, provide health and employment opportunities to very poor people, and to defeat terrorism.

About , was raised from Greg Mortensen’s presentations. On October , the  Pedal for Peace bike relay was held, which raised another , for both Greg Mortensen’s Central Asia Institute as well as for AWAKEN (Afghan Women’s and Kids’ Education and Necessities, Inc.), located in Muncie, Indiana, which provides education and hope for the people of Afghanistan.

In October, St. Luke’s hosted CAMI WALKER, author of 29 Gifts: How One Month of Giving Can Change Your Life.

Cami shared with us her journey of learning to give while dealing with the pain and debilitation of multiple St. Luke’s was the primary sclerosis, and inspired us to witness sponsoring organization for how giving yourself the gift of giving bringing GREG MORTENSEN, while in the midst of personal difficuladvocate and best-selling ties can have a profound effect on your author of Three Cups of Tea life. The people of St. Luke’s were transand Stones into Schools, to formed as we disciplined ourselves to Indianapolis in September Greg Mortenson give something to someone else every . Mortensen spoke to day for  days and discovered how we and the person we gave about  people at St. Luke’s, to hundreds of school children to were blessed in the process. in Indianapolis, and to hundreds of college students throughout the state about his mission to start schools in Afghanistan

New Worship Opportunities During , our worship attendance at all services increased from  in the year , to  in the year , a % increase. This makes St. Luke’s among the ten largest attended United Methodist Churches in the nation. This increase is due in part to starting two new services: a second service at Oak Hill called Garden Unplugged led by Rev. Stan Abell, and Family Fuel for grade school children and their parents led by Rev. Jamalyn Peigh Williamson.

GARDEN UNPLUGGED, which started in August , uses elements familiar to Garden

worship services—modern music you’d hear on the radio, and video clips. The essence of the service is the opportunity for participants to be involved in dialogue.

The theme is tied to the main Garden theme of the morning, and opportunity for further discussion can be found on the “virtual church” website Bluevine Collective, also launched in . These opportunities open the doors for new ways to worship that can reach far beyond the physical walls of the church.

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FAMILY FUEL launched on October , . This worship service is geared for kids, with an emphasis on parents learning along with them.

Parents and children worship together, enabling them to continue the conversation at home during the week. It’s a high-energy service that is reaching over  moms, dads, kids and other family members and friends each week.

Family Fuel worship service

Generosity I thank God for the amazing generosity of the people of St. Luke’s during these difficult financial times. Nationally, religious organizations received about % less in  than they received in .

However, because of the generosity of this congregation, our income for the budget increased to ,, in  compared to ,, in , or an increase of about , during .

In addition, you gave , for the final year of the Powerful Possibilities capital campaign, and about another  million in gifts for missions in Haiti, Sierra Leone, Indianapolis intercity ministries, Habitat for Humanity, United Christmas Service, Interfaith Hunger Initiative, Greg Mortensen, Pedal for Peace, as well as many other missions supported through The Garden’s % giving program, Stephen Ministry, and children, youth, women and men’s ministries. Furthermore, our Endowment

increased from a market value of ,, on December ,  to ,, on December ,  due to generous estate and memorial gifts and an increase in the stock market during .

Because our pledge commitments for  are slightly less than , our Finance Committee is estimating that our projected income for  will be ,,, or about , less than .

Our Staff Parish Committee has recommended that we not reduce staff during  to balance the budget, especially during this leadership transition time, so the Finance Committee is proposing a budget which does not reduce staff but does reduce communication expenses, new programs, and other areas of the budget. We are committed to a balanced budget and not spending more than our income allows.

During , the St. Luke’s congregation continued to generously support the ministries of the church with their financial gifts. , , ,

Gifts received for Powerful Possibilities Campaign Other Capital Campaign/Building Fund Gifts TOTAL Capital Gifts 

  

Gifts toward  Annual Operating Fund Gifts received for  support of The Garden Funds received for Missions/Designated Funds/Programs** Gifts received for St. Luke’s Endowment TOTAL Gifts received for Operations/Outreach

 ,,  ,  ,,  ,  ,,

TOTAL Gifts Received from the St. Luke’s Family in 

$ ,,

gifts 5

** Sampling of Outreach Ministries receiving service/funds in  American Indian Projects Appalachian Project, Hazard, KY

Global Interfaith Partnership Habitat for Humanity

AWAKEN

Indianapolis; Collier County, Naples, FL; John's Island, SC; Ft. Myers, FL Haiti: Fondwa; Haitian Academy, Port au Prince; John Wesley School, Jeremie; Three Angels

Barnes UMC Community Center Burma/Myanmar Caring Churches Network Central Asia Institute Changing Footprints Construction Ministries (SAWS) CROP Walk Damien Center Deaf Ministry D'Iberville Volunteer Center EPES - Chile Earthquake and Flood Relief First Baptist Food Bank Fletcher Place Community Center Fox Hill Elementary Fresh Start Global AIDS Initiative

Heifer Project Indiana United Methodist Children's Home Interfaith Hunger Initiative IU/Kenya AIDS/Power of One Inter-Faith Alliance Liberia, Africa Lucille Raines Residence Manna from Heaven Mar Elias/Nazareth Academic Institute Metropolitan School District of Washington Township for Nora refugees

Midwest Mission Distribution Center Neema Orphanage Operation Classroom, Sierra Leone & Liberia

Outreach, Inc. Sierra Leone, Africa Taiama, Africa Timmy Foundation Tree of Life, South Dakota UMCOR Underneath It All, We're All the Same United Christmas Service United Methodist Children's Home in Kentucky Vida Nueva Food Pantry World Missions support of work trips Zimbabwe Water Project

••• Total gifts and contributions made to world and community groups from UMW, The Garden, Singles, Children’s and other ministries were over ,.

••• St. Luke’s also contributed , through apportionments to the work of the United Methodist Church throughout the world.

: The congregation continues to respond to St. Luke’s mission with their Prayers, Presence, Service and Gifts.

pledges 2010 Annual Income Statement

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# of Families Pledging

Total Pledges

Average Pledge

    

,, ,, ,, ,, ,,

, , , , ,

    

Pledge Income Identified Plate Loose Plate Christmas/Easter Special Gifts Gain/Loss on Securities Prior Year Pledges Facility Rental Sundays in the South Annual Designated

 ,,  ,  ,  ,  ,    ,  ,  ,  ,

TOTAL Income

 ,,

EXPENSES Utilities Building Maintenance Staff Parish Relations Church Apportionments Program Budgets TOTAL Expenses

 ,  ,  ,,  ,  ,  ,,

Net



,

Welcoming New Members During  we welcomed  new members at St. Luke’s and lost  members by death, transfers or withdrawal for a net gain of  members. The total membership of St. Luke’s is , at the end of .

Confessions of Faith Confirmation Class Transfer from UMC or Restored Other Denominations TOTAL New Members Removal of Members Withdrawn Transfer to Other UMC To Other Denominations Deaths TOTAL Withdrawn Net Membership Gain Membership Baptisms Preparatory / Children under 18 Constitutents Average Worship Attendance St. Luke’s Worship The Garden TOTAL











    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

  

  

  

  

  

membership

  

A TIME FOR DECISION On December 27, 2010, I informed the congregation of my decision to retire as Senior Pastor of St. Luke’s effective June 30, 2011.

As I sat down to prepare my Annual Report for St. Luke’s, I was reminded of these words of St. Paul: “What is Apollos? What is Paul? They are servants who helped you to believe. Each one had a role given to them by the Lord: I planted, Apollos watered, but God made it grow…the one who plants and the one who waters work together…we are God’s coworkers, and you are God’s garden.” FIRST CORINTHIANS :- St. Paul came to Corinth in ancient Greece and started a congregation of people who trusted in God and followed Jesus

Christ. After awhile, Paul left Corinth and moved on to start other congregations of Christians in other communities, and another Christian leader named Apollos came to lead the congregation in Corinth.

In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul uses this analogy: The congregation is the garden, Paul came and planted the seeds of faith in that garden, Apollos followed him as a leader who watered the plants in the garden, but God is the one who made the plants in the garden grow. Paul says that the one who plants and the one who waters are not nearly as important as the God who provides the soil, the sun, the seeds and the miracle of growth.

St. Luke’s is a garden of followers of Jesus Christ.

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Rev. Bill Imler was the first pastor of this congregation. He worked with a faithful group of lay persons to plant the seeds of faith in this garden in . Dr. Richard Hamilton, Dr. Carver McGriff and I have been the senior pastors of St. Luke’s who have watered this garden of faith since the congregation was founded  years ago this March . However, all of the senior and associate pastors who have served here since  know that we are simply co-workers whom God uses to help the seeds of faith grow into mature and fruitful plants in this garden of faith.

I will retire on June , , and God will bring a new senior pastor here sometime after that. I know that God will use that pastor to continue to water, nurture and tend the garden of faith here along with all of the other pastors and staff of this congregation.

TRUST GOD NO MATTER WHAT In , it was determined that St. Luke’s needed to expand its facilities in order to accommodate the church’s growing ministry. Ground was broken for a new Sanctuary as well as expanded Educational and Music areas, and the Expect a Miracle capital campaign was launched. That campaign raised just over  million.

In subsequent years, building Luke’s Lodge, expanded parking and HVAC replacements were completed, bringing the total of all building project expenses (including interest) to  million.

Through Expect a Miracle and two other campaigns—With God, All Things Are Possible, and Powerful Possibilities—the generous people of St. Luke’s have given  million toward those expenses.

The St. Luke’s Governing Board has authorized a TRUST GOD NO MATTER WHAT capital campaign to generate  million in

five-year pledges to make our monthly mortgage payments, and hopefully to become a debt-free congregation by .

The debt that was eliminated before I came in  enabled the leaders of St. Luke’s to envision what God was calling the church to do next in terms of expanding its strong servant ministries throughout the community and world, and in expanding the facilities to meet the spiritual needs of a growing congregation. Doing the same would leave the next senior pastor and our leaders with a financially strong congregation so that the ministries of St. Luke’s would continue to serve the spiritual and personal needs of thousands of people in our community and beyond.

Before former senior pastor Dr. Carver McGriff retired in , St. Luke’s had a capital campaign to eliminate the indebtedness on the facilities expansions during his ministry here. It was a wise thing to do.

The church is now faced with a similar situation. St. Luke’s has expanded facilities and ministries over the past  years and is now reaching about twice as many people in worship, education, fellowship and service than before. However, we also have incurred indebtedness in the process.

Our current indebtedness stands at nearly  million. While there are sufficient capital gifts on hand to pay the mortgage through the end of , additional gifts are needed for mortgage payments beginning in  or we may have to reduce staff and programming to make those mortgage payments.

Now is the time to finish what God started among us a decade ago and not pass our indebtedness on to future generations.

When we expect miracles and trust God no matter what, the miracle of generosity happens and we discover that our trust in God is not misplaced.

When I came here  years ago, I had to put aside fear and trust God completely as God led all of us into an unknown future.

But we discovered that God is always faithful to us, and when we TRUST GOD NO MATTER WHAT, God will lead us to greater heights than we could ever have imagined. The best years of St. Luke’s are always ahead of us.

Grace and Peace,

Kent Millard 8