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N e w s l e t t e r
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| The Gulf Central District |
August 2009 | |
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Greetings!
Our family dog, Buster died this month. We are sad and we miss him. I am reminded of a "Pastor's Page" article I wrote in a newsletter a few years ago that reflected on God's revealed grace in the midst of everyday life, even in the death of a pet.
REVELATION
It was a presence, not faith, which drew Moses to the burning bush. And what happened there was a revelation, not a seminar. --Aidan Kavanagh
Once a little boy came to poet/author Kathleen Norris and said, "I saw the ladder that goes up to God." The boy told her that the ladder was by his tree house and that God had come halfway down. God's clothes were covered with pockets-like a kangaroo, he said, and they both laughed. He told her that even God's running shoes had pockets, full of wonder, and that God carried food in the pockets to feed all the dead animals and dead people.
This boy had recently experienced the death of his pet dog which had been bitten by a rabid raccoon on his family's ranch, and his father had to shoot both animals. As the boy told Norris about his dream, she thought about Jacob, who during a crisis in his life had also seen a ladder going up to heaven. Jacob said "God is in this place, and I did not know it."
For Norris, "revelation is not explanation, not theology or dogma. It is the presence of God who cares for all creatures, like a little boy whose dog has died, and who needs, and received divine consolation." I have a feeling God reveals God's self more often than we recognize. May God give us eyes of faith to see, and a heart of faith to experience God's presence.
Peace,
John |
Maggie Minute
I hope all have taken some time to enjoy God's creation since I wrote last.
I'm looking for Charge/Church Conference dates, times and Presiding Elders - if you haven't sent your info to me please do so.
Pastor's meeting September 21 at St Paul UMC 10 AM - 2 PM lunch provided please RSVP.
We are going to do something a little different -- the Clergy Spouses will meet at the same time in another room and we will have lunch together. Please RSVP by calling 727-585-1207 or email flumc-gc@flumc.org if you have any questions please contact me.
Clergy Retreat November 12-13 at the Tradewinds St. Petersburg Beach - this will be a wonderful time of fellowship and renewal. Please make your RSVP with the district office.
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Joys & Concerns:
Please continue to pray for Dwight McQueen and Fred Bonsteel. Also pray for all of the churches and pastors that are new to each other. |
 Don't Forget to Report!
Pastors, please contact your MVS Reporter, making sure that they have reported. If they need further assistance, please have them contact Maggie at the District office. In July, congregations were asked to begin reporting data for Intentional Discipling and Salty Service. | |
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August Birthdays |
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2 - John Hay
5 - Susan Gill
6 - Kathy Moore
8 - Phyllis Haas
11 - Sallie Vandervort
12 - Jerry Partney
13 - Chuck Engelhardt
17 - Lisa Degrenia
18 - Bert Blomquist
20 - RayaSue Hallman
21 - Jim Rosenburg
24 - Judy Angel
26 - Jane McCloskey
31 - Wayne Vaughan
31 - Lena Misener
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August Anniversaries |
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August 4:
Herbert & Sylvia Lange
August 6:
Craig & Kathy Moore
August 10:
Timothy & Phyllis Haas
August 11:
John & Martha Peavey
August 12:
Eric & Barbara McCrea
August 25:
Dan & Martha Campbell
August 26:
Alex & Cheryl Knight
August 29:
Mark & Iris Whittaker | |
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Calendar of Reports Due
August 2009
18-31 Annual Ministry Protection Property, Casualty Renewal Survey. (CONNECT). Review and update online annually. Annual CONNECT renewal period is August 18-31. This form is available online year round to enable churches to update insurance data year round as changes occur. Click here for link to CONNECT.
18-31 Annual Workers Compensation Salary Survey (CONNECT). Complete online annually. Annual CONNECT renewal period is August 18-31. This data is collected as part of the annual Ministry Protection property renewal CONNECT survey. Please be sure to project your payroll by category through the end of 2009 when you complete this section.
28th Annual Charge Conference forms available online Friday, Aug. 28. These forms are to be completed annually by each local church in accordance with the district superintendent's annual charge conference directions. Forms will be available starting on the date listed. |
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 UMCM Announces New Director
Clearwater, Florida
The board and all of us at United Methodist Cooperative Ministries (UMCM) and throughout the district extend a warm welcome to Pamela Qualls, our new Executive Director. We also welcome Ed, her husband of 27 years, and Joe and Kimberly, their son and daughter. Joe is a recent Stetson University graduate and Kimberly attends Kenyon College. Pam was born and raised in Indianapolis and is a graduate of the University of Indianapolis, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Music Performance. "I prepared for a career in Fine Arts Administration, but soon found a deeper interest in Human Services, Education and Development." Pam spent 10 years as a professional musician and over 15 years in marketing, non-profit management and music education. A lifelong Methodist, Pam has served in a variety of roles in the church in missions, trustees, worship, youth, and teaching. She plays the flute in the orchestra at Anona United Methodist Church in Largo, where she and her family are members.
United Methodist Cooperative Ministries/Suncoast, Inc. is the not-for-profit outreach ministry of the Gulf Central District of The Florida Conference, United Methodist Church. UMCM carries out its programs throughout the gulf coast of Florida in Manatee, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, and Citrus counties. Programs include the Children of the World Preschool, PASS+ After School Tutorial Program, Family Support Services, Homeless Outreach, Families Learning Together Literacy Programs, PACK-A-Sack 4 Kids and Justice for Our Neighbors (JFON) Legal Clinic. The main office is located in Clearwater, Florida with satellite locations in other areas. For more information on UMCM's programs and affiliates, please visit our website at www.umcm.info or call 727-442-6881 |
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 UMW Summer Felllowship
August 15 from 10 am to 12 Noon
You and your friends are invited to a day of FUN!! FELLOWSHIP!! and, of course, FOOD at the Gulf Central District UMW Summer Fellowship.
Enjoy breakfast goodies and seeing friends from other Units from 10:00 to 10:45 AM. We'll then relocate to the Sanctuary and enjoy voices from East Lake UMC as Marian Palmer presents "The Gospel According to Broadway II."
Although reservations are not necessary, for planning and seating purposes, please let us know how many will be attending from your UMW Unit? Call Nancy Cuckler 727-375-2602 or e-mail ncuckler@msn.com. For an event flyer [click here].
"Sing to the Lord a new song" --Psalm 96:1 |
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Next Conference Table to focus on Clergy Excellence
Thursday, September 3 from 10am to 3 pm
The next Florida Conference Table will be on the topic of "Clergy Excellence." The event will be held Thursday Sept. 3, from 10 am to 3 pm, at the Community of Faith Church in Davenport. Directions to the church are available [here]. This Conference Table event is open to all people interested in the topic. The Conference Table concept was established by a resolution at the 2002 Florida Annual Conference. The first Conference Table was held in August of that same year.
This session will offer a space for true Christian conferencing around issues of clergy excellence - what it is, why it is important, and what helps or hinders it. The event will differ from previous Conference Tables in that it will utilize an "open space technology" format. This method for discussion is based on the idea that the circle is the fundamental geometry of open human communication and that participants are the best ones to shape the actual agenda and process of a work session. Participants will plan the meeting's program onsite based on the issues of importance to them in that time and space. Voluntary self-selection is central to open space technology in that each individual will be responsible for their own learning and input into the meeting. Those who attend will decide what topics to discuss, how it will be discussed and will design an action plan to help address the issues raised;Two United Methodist laity familiar with the process will serve as facilitators. The session will not be web cast as previous Conference Tables, due to the unique format that will be utilized. To register for the Conference Table, [click here] |
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Training Event for Lay Speakers
September 12 & 19 (must attend both days for certification)
Sylvan Abbey, 2817 Sunset Point Road, Clearwater, FL 33759
Leading, Caring, and Communicating: Lay Speakers combine words and actions in leadership roles with their families, churches and communities. As Lay Speakers combine words with deeds; they find ways to care for others. All Lay Speakers are called to communicate their faith. We want to be equipped to do it well as we serve as a representative of Jesus Christ. [Click Here] for brochure. |
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 Intentional Discipleship Workshop
"Deepening Your Effectiveness" on September 11 & 12
The second series of training on Intentional Discipleship "Deepening Your Effectiveness", will be held Sept. 11 at First United Methodist Church in Port Orange, and repeated on Sept. 12 at First United Methodist Church in Punta Gorda. Information regarding registration is posted at www.congregationaltransformation.com or click on the book picture. The cost of each one-day workshop is $45 per person, including lunch and snacks. For additional information, contact Vicky Tica at vtica@flumc.org. |
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"Weaving a Web" of Connection: Internet Technology
One-day Interactive Training Event Saturday, October 3
 "Weaving a Web of Connection: Internet Technology for Effective Ministry" is a one-day interactive training event presented by United Methodist Communications in partnership with the Florida Conference. This regional event covers the basics of starting a Web ministry in a local church, district or conference organization. The event will be held Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Life Enrichment Center in Fruitland Park. The event is designed to assist local churches and other organizations to use Web and Internet technology for effective ministry. It is open to all people who want to learn how to use today's digital technology to reach seekers, visitors and stay connected with members. The training is ideal for pastors, staff, volunteers, webmasters/webservants and communications teams. It is largely geared for beginner and intermediate skill levels, but advanced and professional techies will not be disappointed. For more information about Weaving a Web, go [here]. A training event overview and schedule can also be downloaded from this site. The cost for this event including registration, class materials, continental breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack is $75. To register for this event, go here. Registration deadline is September 27. |
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 Ministers' Mates Retreat
"Embracing Change" on November 5-7
We invite all Ministers' Mates to come and enjoy a special time away on November 5-7, to have fun, connect with other Mates, and to celebrate your own journey of faith. You will meet a group who understand your unique role and lifestyle as the pastor's spouse; but more importantly, you can be yourself and you will be loved and accepted just as you are.
The theme for this year's retreat is Embracing Change: Life Cycle Changes, Ministry Career Changes, and Personal Changes. The speakers are Ministers' Mates, like you and me, who will share how their faith has enabled them to grow spiritually and persevere during challenging times in their lives. The cost for the retreat and rooming at the LEC is $140 and must be mailed by September 30 to Pam Rosenburg in Bradenton. Please download the brochure and registration [click here]. If financial assistance is needed, there are scholarships available also. We are praying for you and look forward to seeing you in November. We'd also like to connect with you throughout the year on Facebook.com. Please sign-in and look for our group: Florida Conference UM Ministers' Mates.
If you have any questions, please email Darlene Waller, Retreat Chair, at kraftylady1951@yahoo.com or call her at (386) 717-3586. |
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Life Enrichment Center Celebrates 30 Years of Ministry
Save the Date! Saturday, November 15
The Life Enrichment Center in Fruitland Park, Fla., will celebrate its 30th anniversary Nov. 15. All clergy and laity are invited to attend.
The celebration will begin at 2 p.m. with an open house, tours of the Life Enrichment Center and other planned programs. At 5 p.m. guests will gather for dinner and a look at the center's future. The celebration will close with worship at 6 p.m.
A special rate for lodging will be available the night before and after the celebration. More details will be provided in September.
Information about the Life Enrichment Center and its ministry is available at http://www.lecretreats.org. Our mission is to provide a sacred space filled with Christian hospitality, in a natural environment, that encourages life enriching experiences for all. |
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 Clergy Day Apart
Monday, November 16
Bishop Tim Whitaker is inviting all clergy in the Florida Conference to come for a day of spiritual renewal, worship and conversations with colleagues, Monday, November 16. There will be nothing to vote on; clergy are simply invited to come and connect with God and others before heading into a busy Advent season. The day will offer structured times of worship and reflection, as well as unstructured time to spend alone with God and in community with others.
More details are coming soon, but plan now to save the date: Monday, November 16 from 9 am to 5 pm at the Life Enrichment Center in Fruitland Park. |
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Florida Woman Earns National Award for Ministry
by Jenna De Marco
To hear Betty Perry explain it, there's not much to what she does each week for people living in and around her city who are homeless.
"Whatever we can do for these people, we do," she said.
That simple statement belies what many would consider a daunting commitment to the local homeless population that began 10 years ago when she served breakfast to one needy person. Today, Perry prepares and serves a weekly Sunday breakfast and provides clothes and other items to hundreds of people through the Uncommon Touch Ministry at her church, Mount Zion United Methodist Church in Clearwater, Florida.
"I started out fixing a breakfast for the Sunday school workers, and this one man came ... and asked me if he could eat, and I told him yes, and the next Sunday I ended up with six people," Perry said. Read More >>> |
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Churches Asked to Update Information
Find-A-Church.com
More than 300,000 seekers go to www.Find-A-Church.com looking for the right church in their community. More visitors are on their way. Let's get ready. Bishop Whitaker is asking all churches to go into this site to update your church's information. If you need assistance, please call 1-800-251-8140. Your church might be exactly what this person is looking for. |
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 A Place That Offers Life
by Daniel P. Smith and Mary K. Sellon
"Finances are tight, and our numbers are dwindling. The congregation is looking to me to turn things around. So is my denomination--that's exactly what I was told when I was appointed here. And, frankly, that's my expectation too. Isn't that my job?" says a pastor of a congregation that has been experiencing decline for many years, voicing the belief of many congregations, denominations, and pastors that when a congregation is declining, it is the pastor's job to fix it. Here's the hard truth. If you're a layperson in a congregation that's experiencing decline, whether the congregation thrives is ultimately up to you and the other members. Your pastor can teach, guide, lead, support, inspire, even cajole. But in the end, congregational health is a function of how people in the congregation relate to one another, to God, and to their community. A congregation is a microcosm of the greater church, a local embodiment of the body of Christ. In John's Gospel, Jesus says, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly" (John 10:10). We believe this is one of the primary messages that a healthy congregation embodies for its members and its surrounding community. A congregation that is truly being church brings people into a loving, life-giving relationship with God and others that is transformational. This is the nature of the kin-dom of God, where covenant relationships model the best aspects of family. People find hope. They experience belonging; they extend and receive forgiveness. They discover a sense of purpose and direction. They learn to live with appreciation and joy no matter what the circumstances. Although a pastor can preach and teach this message, the message has power only to the extent that the people in the congregation live it and practice it with one another. Practicing loving, life-giving relationships transforms congregation members. Witnessing such benefits draws others who want something similar for themselves and their families. Continue Reading "A Place that Offers Life" |
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| District
Calendar |
Aug 6-7: Leadership Summit, Van Dyke UMC Aug 18-31: Ministry Protection CONNECT forms due
Sep 1: Charge/Church Conference date, time and presiding Elder's name due to the District office.
Sep 3: Conference Table at Community of Faith Church in Davenport
Sep 7: Conference & District Offices Closed for Labor Day
Sep 11-12: Intentional Discipleship: Deepening your Effectiveness
Sep 14-18: CabinetSep 18-19: Small Church Retreat at LEC
Sep 21: Clergy Meeting, St. Paul UMC, Largo, 10a-2p
Sep 21: Clergy Spouse Meeting, St. Paul UMC, Largo, 10a-2p, RSVP 727-585-1207 or flumc-gc@flumc.org.
Oct 14-15: Cabinet
Oct 24: District United Methodist Women Annual Meeting
**October is Clergy Appreciation Month
Nov 10-11: Cabinet
Nov 12-13: Clergy Retreat at Tradewinds, St. Pete Beach
Nov 26-27: District & Conference offices closed for Thanksgiving
Dec 8-10: Cabinet
Dec 24-Jan 4: District & Conference offices closed for Christmas |
Gulf Central District Training events for 2010
Finance, Trustees, Lay Leader, Staff Parish Relations, Methodist Way, Faith Community Nursing, Disaster Training, Missions, and the UM Children's Home
February 8 - First Bradenton
February 9 - Heritage Clearwater
February 11 - First Spring Hill | |
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