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TRANSCRIPT
Required Annual Forms
Church Dashboard Login
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DISTRICT CALENDAR
Thursday, November 8 DCOM – Bitner Room-Conference Center
Saturday, December 1 – Clergy Family Gathering
Butler District
BUCKET LIST
E-news November 8, 2018 Volume VII Issue 42
Clergy Family Open House
Invitations have been sent via email and US Postal Service.
Please take a moment to read the invitation and RSVP with the time you will visit the district parsonage.
Sunday, December 2 –Listening Posts - A Way Forward @ First UMC, New Castle 2:30-4:30 PM
ALL COPIES OF CLEARANCES ARE DUE TO THE DISTRICT OFFICE November 30, 2018
Local Pastor Mentoring Group
Leaders: Rev Dean Ziegler & Rev Barbara Stoehr
MEETINGS FOR THIS CONFERENCE YEAR: [NOTE NEW AFTERNOON TIME OF 2 PM]
November 8, December 13, February 7, and April 11, all Thursdays
MENTORING REPORTS Due to Barbara Stoehr by December 13. [December 13 negotiable for meeting, according to group desires]
CLEARANCES FOR PASTORS The District office will need a copy of all three of your clearances by Nov 30, 2018. Previously, we did not require you to send us a copy, but the requirements have changed. Also, if you have moved into our District from another District, you will need to get an updated FBI Clearance Report and provide it to us. Your old report will not be accepted. Any questions, please feel free to contact Thelma at the District office.
CLEARANCE LINKS. Here are the three links: State Police: https://epatch.state.pa.us/Home.jsp Child Abuse: https://www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis/public/home FBI Fingerprint Identity Check: https://uenroll.identogo.com/
For FBI Fingerprints, look at the top of the page where it says "Enter your Service Code to get started." Enter this Service Code: 1KG756 While this code is for DHS Employees, IdentoGO has verified that all pastors in PA are authorized to use this code, (DHS processes our clearances). This code lowers the cost of the FBI Check to $22.60 instead of $50.00. The full explanation of this code can be found here:
1KG756 Employee >=14 Years Contact w/ Children
An employee age 14 or older who would not fall under the child care services/program employee or contractor definition, and who has care, supervision, guidance or control of children or routine interaction with children.
OCTOBER ONE TO ONE SCHEDULE
– PLEASE UPDATE YOUR CLERGY PROFILE PRIOR TO YOUR ONE TO ONE
November 9—Friday
10:00 a.m. Harriet Hutton (license)
1:00 p.m. Wayne Schar (license)
November 13—Tuesday
10:00 a.m. Tim Goodman
1:00 p.m. Jim Lewis
November 14—Wednesday
10:00 a.m. Josh Nash (license)
1:00 p.m. Bay Allen (license)
November 15-Thursday
10:00 a.m. Debra Flint
1:00 p.m. Sarah Adkins
November 16—Friday
10:00 a.m. Angelique Bradford (license)
November 20—Tuesday
10:00 a.m. Allan Brooks
1:00 p.m. Todd Davis
November 21—Wednesday
9:00 a.m. Kenn Jacobs (license)
2:00 p.m. Bonnie Rupp (license)
November 27—Tuesday
10:00 a.m. Mark Ongley
1:00 p.m. Joshua Demi (license)
November 28—Wednesday
10:00 a.m. Barbara Stoehr
1:00 p.m. Thom Scott (license)
OCTOBER CHURCH CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
-PLEASE UPDATE YOU CHURCH PROFILE PRIOR TO YOUR CHURCH CONFERENCE
– REMEMBER TO UPDATE YOUR CHURCH LEADERS ALSO!
Church Conference: Don’t forget to send a copy of your Church Conference minutes to the District Office!
ALSO – Please remember to update you leaders on your church dashboard. For login information, call the district office. The district and conference use these leader addresses on a regular basis, so please remember to update.
November 8—Thursday, 7:00 p.m. Wurtemburg/Koppel Charge @Wurtemburg
November 10—Saturday, 11:00 a.m. Harrisville/Forestville Charge @Harrisville
November 11—Sunday, following worship Monaca UMC
November 12 – Monday, 7:00 p.m. Christ Community UMC
November 13—Tuesday, 7:00 p.m. Cabot UMC
November 14—Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. Savannah/Croton Charge @Croton
November 15—Thursday, 7:00 p.m. Concord UMC
November 17—Saturday, 10:00 a.m. Ellwood City/Homewood Charge @
November 18—Sunday, following worship Butler: First
November 19—Monday, 7:00 p.m. NC: First/King’s Chapel Charge @ First
November 20—Tuesday, 7:00 p.m. Harmony/Zelienople UMC
November 27—Tuesday, 7:00 p.m. Buffalo Charge @
November 28—Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. Brush Run UMC
Birthdays
NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS
November Birthdays 11/8 - Kathleen A. Mikesell
Mary (Bay) Allen 11/10-Sally (Roger) Shaffer
Patricia (Wayne) Schar 11/11- John Fennell Tim Goodman 11/13–Denise (Rob) Wilson 11/14- Joshua Demi 11/16 -Keith McIlwain 11/19 -Lindsey (Drew) Myers 11/21–John Magargee 11/22 -Mark Ongley 11/24 -Lauri E.(Mark) Ongley 11/25 -Barry Lewis Jean (Hengust) Robinson 11/27–David Vaughn 11/28–Dean Ziegler 11/29 -James “Jim” Lewis Floyd Barnhart
Anniversaries
11/12/1983 – Janice & Terry Davis 11/15/1986-Robert S. & Karla S. Berkley
11/18/1972-Charles R. & Carol Ann Fowler
11/24 – Gary & Michelle Hilton
.PRAYER CONCERNS AND JOYS
IF YOU HAVE A JOY OR PRAYER CONCERN, PLEASE EMAIL BUTLER. [email protected]
Please remember to keep in prayer:
Revs Keith and Alyce Weaver Dunn as they mourn the passing of Alyce’s mother, Doris Weaver.
Julie Lake family (Franklin District Administrative Assistant) as she cares for her mother who had
surgery Nov 5, broken hip and other health concerns
Congratulations to Loren and Sara McQueen, on the arrival of Abigaile Ruth, born Saturday,
November 3.
Pat Schar (Rev Wayne Schar) health concerns.
Continued prayer for Rev. Bruce (& Glenda) Merritt
Recent Flooding and cleanup
Those awaiting test results, surgery and medical treatment.
A Way Forward – Listening Post Events
General Conference in February 2019.
Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi and the WPA Cabinet
Praying Our Way Forward: With about 17 weeks before the 2019 special session of the General Conference,
United Methodists throughout the world are engaged in the third phase of Praying our Way Forward. Join in
prayer and fasting. Get details.
SYNAGOGUE SHOOTING RESPONSE
Stand Together at the Point! Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto has arranged for a city-wide rally at noon Friday, Nov. 9 at Point State Park to honor victims of the Tree of Life shooting, and to call for peace and unity among all. It will begin with a one-minute moment of silence for peace and for the 11 victims. Clergy are invited to stand together as a group; if possible, plan to arrive by 10:45 and check in at the gate to be shown to the waiting area.
Woven Together: On Thursday evening, Nov. 15, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary will host an interfaith panel sharing thoughts on the shootings at Tree of Life synagogue and how to speak about the tragedy to people in our faith communities. The discussion begins at 7 p.m. Get details.
DISTRICT NEWS
Reach Out to Veterans: UMC.org offers 20 Ways to Reach Out on Veterans Day. See what they are.
Harmony-Zelienople Seeking Young Adult Director / Hospital Visitor
The Young Adult Ministries Director/Hospital Visitation Coordinator is an hourly part-time position (35 hours a week
maximum) which is responsible for
planning, implementing, and directing ministries for those persons who are nineteen through thirty years of age,
as well as working in tandem with the Pastor to visit persons from our church family who are in the hospital.
The primary focus is to build genuine relationships with young adults and provide Biblical instruction in small group
settings.
Interviews for this position will take place on Tuesday, November 27.
Please contact Rev. Dan Owen to schedule an interview, or to seek additional information, at (814) 464-4411.
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FAITH COUMMUNITY: Rochester, Faith on 68 and Riverview Churches
Riverview United Methodist Church will be an entry at the Veterans Day Chili Cook-off at the Center at
the Mall at the Beaver Valley Mall on November 9th from noon until 2:00 pm. They will also be
promoting their S.E.N.I.O.R.S. Wednesday program at their “sampling” table. Please be sure to come by,
sample, and vote. The top four winners each get $100!
JAM at Faith Early Education and Child Care Center is looking for qualified people to work approx. 20-35
hrs/week at our faith-based center. Must have at least a high school diploma and 2,500 hours of child care
experience. Salary based on experience. Contact us at [email protected] or call 878-313-3373
PRAYER FOCUS THIS WEEK
BRANCHTON & WEST LIBERTY CHURCHES
Rev Dan Miller
A FREE chairlift for a standard split level house needs a new home.
Please contact Pastor Tim Goodman.
724-775-2893
Chippewa United Methodist Church (CUMC) -
Nov /Dec Activities/Events
Pickleball is a paddle sport (similar to a racquet sport) that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. Two or four players use solid paddles made of wood or composite materials to hit a perforated polymer ball, similar to a Wiffle Ball, over a net. It is a great way to stay healthy and fit. Our Community Life Center, 118 McMillen Ave, Beaver Falls, PA 15010 is available for singles and doubles players of all ages. The cost is $5/player. Already have a group that meets, we have other available court times for rent. You just need to contact the Community Life Center to schedule. Please remember you don’t have to be an expert or you don’t have to have a partner, beginners and single players are welcome. Come and experience fellowship with others by playing pickleball. Please contact our Community Life Center at 724-843-4032 ext 3 for scheduling, others times, and more information. We all need prayers and it is nice to know that you can pray with someone. Please come and join our Prayer & Witness Team on Thursday evenings from 6:30 pm-7:00pm @ 2545 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls, PA. This dedicated group of prayer warriors will welcome you and help you in your prayer journeys. Do you like to crochet? If so, we provide prayer shawls to members within the congregation and the community who are going through medical treatments. No wool, please. All shawls are blessed by the Pastors. Please contact the Church office @ 724-843-4828 to find out how you can give back to others. Griefshare, a Recovery Support Group, for people grieving the death of someone close is held on Thursdays through December 6 @ the CUMC, 2545 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls, Pa from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Griefshare is a place where you can be around people who understand how you feel and the pain of your loss. It is a class where you will learn valuable information that will help you through this difficult time in your life. To register, please contact the Church office @ 724-843-4828.
An Advent Bible Study based on Adam Hamilton’s book, Faithful - Christmas Through the Eyes of Joseph will begin on Wednesday, November 28th and continues Wednesdays through December 19. Two times are available to attend: 11 am and 7 pm. The study will be held in the Wesley Room in the Church, 2545 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls. This 4 week study examines Christmas through the eyes of Joseph and teaches us how to learn to accept and glorify God’s will even when our situation makes it difficult to do so. Sign up by contacting the church office at 724-843-4828 or by signing up in the Welcome Centers. United Methodist Women (UMW) are celebrating 150 years in mission. The CUMC women are having a World Thank Offering lunch and program in the church’s fellowship hall on Wednesday, November 14 from 12:00pm-1:00pm. The UMW respond to Christ’s call and work for racial justice, the elimination of poverty, educational equality, human rights and much more. If you are a woman who wants to get involved, you can sign up in the church’s welcome center or by contacting the church office. Please bring a dish to share and a love offering designated to the World Thank Offering. Our annual Kids Christmas Town will be held at the Church, 2545 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls, PA, on Saturday, December 1 from 9:00am-12noon. We will have breakfast with Santa $5.00/person, pictures with Santa (4x6 photo @ $5 each), our Santa’s Gift Shop where children can purchase gifts for others and our Christmas Town Crafts where kids can make ornaments to take home. Our 15th annual Christmas Bazaar will take place on Saturday, December 1st from 9:00am-3:00pm at our Community Life Center, 118 McMillen Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA. We will have 70+ vendors, a baked goods sale, silent auction and our CLC Café will serve lunch from 10:30am-2:30pm. A complete list of vendors can be found on our website. Join in fellowship with others and purchase a gift for yourself or a loved one. Join us for our Nativity Showcase & House Tour on Sunday, December 9th from 2:00pm-6:00pm. The Nativity showcase is being held at our Community Life Center, 118 McMillen Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA. There is no cost for this event. Tickets available by donation will be available for the House Tour at our Christmas Bazaar, in our Church Welcome Centers or by calling the church office. Only 150 tickets will be available.
Please visit our website @ www.chippewaumc.org or contact the Church office at 724-843-4828 with any questions.
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Zion UMC, Sarver Thanksgiving Dinner and Live Nativity Events!
New Events at Ambridge: First UMC and Bridgewater UMC
LIVE NATIVITY
DECEMBER 1-2
5 PM 6 PM 7 PM 8 PM
CLERGY CORNER
Deeply Rooted, Upward Reaching - Set up your congregation leader for success in fundraising. This Saturday, November 10th, from 9:30-11:30am, a training will be held at the Conference Center for a volunteer from your congregation to learn a proven method for stewardship and fundraising, which we are recommending for the Bishop's Initiative (link - https://www.wpaumc.org/drurcampaign ). This method can also be utilized for future stewardship and fundraising projects of your congregation. Let us know who will be coming by registering here (link - https://wpa-reg.brtapp.com/CongregationLeaderTraining Clergy Health Insurance Rate: The CBOP approved the 2019 monthly health insurance rate to the local churches. The blended rate for full time clergy for 2019 will be $1536.00 a month. Included in this cost are medical, vision and dental. This represents a 1.7% or $25.00 a month increase for 2019. The 2019 member monthly cost share will remain the same at: $20.00 single / $35.00 two persons / $70.00 family. How to Set Pastor’s Salary: The guidelines for 2019 are being mailed this week. To see the information now, click here.
YOUTH
Commit 2019 - Confirmation Tour dates released!
Schedule:
March 8th - at Wesley Woods
March 15th - at Jumonville
March 22nd - at Camp Allegheny
March 29th and 30th - at Conference Center
Youth Speakers: Are you a youth who has something amazing to say about your faith? Why not say it from
the YOUTH 2019 main stage?! We are now taking applications to fill four open slots for youth speakers at
YOUTH 2019. Expenses paid for and a small honorarium for your work. Click here to apply!
First, scholarships. We offer financial assistance for both individuals and groups. Applications are open now.
Apply soon, because when the money is gone, it's gone.
Youth 2019 Volunteers Needed: Be a part of YOUTH 2019. Become a volunteer! We are excited to announce
our volunteer program. Needed are service volunteers (worksites), backstage volunteers (worship and Bible
study) and gathering volunteers (vast variety of jobs). Click here to become a volunteer!
Registration is underway for YOUTH 2019, the national gathering for United Methodist youth and their leaders next year in Kansas City that promises four days of discipleship, worship, Bible study, service opportunities and life-changing fun. Get details and register.
Young People’s Ministry Grants: The first grants to help young people with a passion for racial justice initiate projects that can impact their world have been awarded to groups in Oklahoma and the Philippines. Learn more
Funding Education: United Methodist students don’t have to worry as much about rising federal student loan interest rates. Through its Office of Loans and Scholarships, the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) offers them the lowest interest for student loans in the U.S. Learn more.
Youth Leader? Like us on Facebook for updates and info: Western Pa UMC Youth Leaders.
The next national gathering of United Methodist youth will be July 10-14, 2019, in Kansas City, Missouri.
Young People’s Ministries, a division of Discipleship Ministries, is announcing details of the event to give
churches time to plan for their youth to attend. The national gathering for United Methodist youth takes
place every four years. Read press release
Youth Mission u: Registration is open for the July 16-21 sessions of Mission u at California U of PA. Get
brochure with details and register at wpaumc.org/youthmissionu.
Why Come to YOUTH 2019? What is so important about YOUTH 2019? What is so great about worshiping with so many
other Methodist youth? Well, we can think of a few reasons... READ MORE The national gathering of
UM Youth will be July 10-14, 2019, in Kansas City, Missouri. The national gathering for UM Youth
takes place every four years. YOUTH 2019 Media Kit! Get more details! YOUTH 2019 Hotels: Click
here to read more. Midwest road trip tips for those driving to KC. Click Here For More Y19
Registration Details!
YOUTH 2019 Registration is Now Open! Register here: http://youth2019.com/register/
UNITED METHODIST WOMEN
UMW News: The Fall newsletter of the Conference United Methodist Women is available now on the UMW page of the
WPAUMC website. See what’s happening.
A WAY FORWARD
GC2019 DCA Now Online: The Advance Edition of the Daily Christian Advocate (ADCA), the official journal of the General Conference of The United Methodist Church, will be available in a bound and printed format by November 26, but a PDF of the 2019 ADCA is accessible online now. WPAUMC Listening Posts: Just three opportunities remain to join in discussions at Way Forward Listening posts--Nov. 11 at Calvary UMC in Pittsburgh; Nov. 18 at Central Highlands UMC; and Dec. 2 at New Castle First UMC. All are on Sunday afternoons. Get details and register Way Forward Impact on UMC Mission: A panel of UMC leaders offered an overview of the what impact of a
decision on A Way Forward might be on the denomination’s mission. Learn more. WCA Assembly: The Wesleyan Covenant Association held its first global legislative assembly Nov. 2 and
passed four resolutions, including one that said adoption of the One Church Plan would be “untenable and would force us to leave.” The group began working on plans for a new Methodist movement either within or outside the UMC. Read more Leaders Move Toward New U.S. Structure: The Connectional Table in a Nov. 2 voted unanimously approved a move toward forming a church decision-making body that deals exclusively with U.S. matters. Learn more.
Legislative Process for GC2019 Decided: The Commission on General Conference has decided on a process to help
delegates to the 2019 special session do the legislative work together. Read more
Way Forward Listening Posts: If you haven't attended a Listening Post yet, don't forget to register for one near you. Get
schedule and details
CONFERENCE NEWS
Franklin District Ministry & Fellowship Day on Saturday, November 10, 2018 at Grace UMC,
210 South Broad Street, Grove City, PA. Brought to you by the Franklin District Council. Keynote Speaker: Ruben Alvarez.
In 2016, God brought him and his wife to Dallas, Texas and now he is serving full time at Casa Linda Church as their
Associate Pastor. Pastor Ruben is in charge of the Embrace Outdoor Area, and his work is to be in connect with the
community and embrace them with the love of Christ.
Early Response Training: Edinboro UMC will host an UMCOR Early Response Team Training on Saturday, November 17.
Individuals and groups are welcome to attend. Early Response Team volunteers are not first responders, but go when
invited to areas affected by disasters to begin initial clean-up without causing harm before the recovery phase begins.
Get details and register
Mediation Skills Training Institute: from Monday – Friday, November 12-16, 2018 in Richmond, Va.
Are you experiencing conflict in your church or community? Conflict is a normal part of life so prepare now. Click here to
register online. Click here for a registration brochure.
Workshop and Conference Sponsored by the Voyagers from Wednesday, November 14 –Thursday, November 15, 2018
for Leaders and Coaches: Clergy, Educators and Therapists
The Voyagers are a gathering of clergy and church leaders exploring Bowen family systems theory and its application to
congregations by Rabbi Edwin Friedman. We believe that the factual approach of Dr. Murray Bowen and the creative use
of theory by Dr. Edwin Friedman provide a new understanding of human functioning for life, leadership, coaching, and
ministry.
Wednesday, November 14, 2018 – Bowen Theory Introduction and Application. This one-day seminar will introduce
participants to Bowen family systems theory and its application to working with families, congregations, and other
institutions in the community. Family of origin work will be presented.
Location: Westin Hotel Buffalo, NY from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. Cost: $60/Students-$35
Thursday, November 15, 2018 – Conference with Dr. Michael Kerr. Theme – Bowen Theory’s Secrets: The Hidden Life
of Families. Dr. Michael Kerr, the director of the Bowen Theory Academy and the former director of the Bowen Center
in Washington, DC, will present a one-day conference focusing on the insights of his new book entitled, “Bowen Theory’s
Secrets: The Hidden Life of Families.” Dr. Kerr will describe family functioning from a Bowen theory perspective and
distinguish it from the traditional psychological approach that focuses on problems within the individual person.
Location: Christ the King Seminary, East Aurora, NY
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Cost: $95/Students-$65 (Both days: $125/Students-$80 includes lunch)
For information and early bird registration, contact Rev. Robert Spilman, CPE Supervisor, Retired, ACPE, 363 Darwin
Drive, Amherst, NY 14226 [email protected] / 716-479-7933 Voyagers website
United Methodist Student Day is Sunday, November 25, 2018. Churches are encouraged to use United Methodist
Student Day to raise awareness of scholarships and loans available to help young people of faith further their education
and make a difference in the world. Offerings received on UM Student Sunday fund loans and scholarship funds for
United Methodist college, university, and graduate students. Videos, bulletin inserts, Facebook graphics, a PowerPoint
presentation and other resources to promote UM Student Day are available at umcgiving.org.
#GiveUMC on Giving Tuesday on November 27: United Methodists will come together as a part of this
movement to advance vital ministries around the world. There are hundreds of ways you can to #GiveUMC.
Momentum for Change, will be hosted on Wednesday – Friday, November 28-30 by the Mississippi Annual Conference
at Christ UMC in Jackson. Fulfill your calling to make disciples of Jesus Christ. Join district superintendents, pastors,
annual conference staffs, bishops and leaders at the Route 122 Conference, the church’s annual networking and
equipping gathering. Information and Registration
GC Delegate Elections: At annual conference in June 2019, members will elect delegates to the 2020 General
and Jurisdictional conferences. Guidelines and eligibility requirements are listed in a document available at
wpaumc.org/conferencesecretary. If you are eligible and Interested in serving as a delegate, fill out the online
nomination form on the Conference website before Dec. 31, 208. See form.
Top Ten Tips For Completing Your Pastor's IRS Form W-2 on Thursday, December 13, 2018 at 10:00 am EST. This
webinar is designed for local church treasurers and those responsible for completing their pastor’s Internal Revenue
Service Form W-2. Register After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining
the webinar.
Save the dates: SPARK 2019 will be January 11-13, 2019 at the Sheraton Station Square. This retreat is for youth in 6th –
12th grades. DJ: Big Al. Speaker: Duffy Robbins. Details to be announced at a later date.
Only Two Days Left to get the early bird discount for SPARK, the January 2019 youth weekend. For details, go to
wpaumc.org/spark.
Orientation to Ministry: The next orientation has been scheduled for Jan. 5, 2019 at Charter Oak UMC. Registration will open online soon. Contact the Rev. Janet Lord at [email protected]
Are you feeling a call to ministry? If you are, and just not sure what that means, then come to the next Orientation to Ministry. This discernment process will help to answer all of those questions.
Casting A Prayer Vision for 2019 with Rev. Dr. Terry Teykl on Saturday, January 12, 2019 from 9am-2pm at Indiana
Grace UMC, 712 Church Street, Indiana, PA. Worship following at 7 pm. To register individuals or groups, email
Apply for a Vital Worship Grant: The Vital Worship Grants program at the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship focuses
on projects that connect public worship to intergenerational faith formation and Christian discipleship. Grant proposals
can be submitted by emerging and established churches; seminaries, colleges, and schools; hospitals, nursing homes and
other organizations. Deadline: January 10, 2019
Wesley Heritage Tour: A limited number of spaces are available for individuals to join the April 7-16, 2019 tour of John
Wesley’s England with Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi and members of the 2019 ordination class. Get brochure.
2019 FAITH NIGHT AT PNC PARK: 7th Annual Faith Night next season is going to be held on Saturday, June 22, 2019. It will be a 4:05 pm game vs. the San Diego Padres. With it being an earlier presentation and on a Saturday, we’re expecting the largest turnout that we’ve ever had. Group reservations of 10 or more will begin next week. It is highly recommended making your group
reservation as soon as possible do to the popularity of this event. You don’t need to know the number of tickets right now. They are just taking deposits towards a block of seats (10 or more seats). You’ll then have until Friday, May 17 to let them know your final number, at which point you’ll also pay the balance. For group reservations: Chad Glover 412-325-4756. Young Adult Holy Land Pilgrimage: Young adult leaders age 18-35 are invited to apply to be part of an August
4-14, 2019 pilgrimage to the Holy Land sponsored by the UMC Young People’s Ministries. One person from
each jurisdiction will be selected. The deadline to apply is Nov. 9 and an endorsement form signed by the
Bishop or a District Superintendent is required. Learn more
Judicial Council Ruling: The United Methodist Judicial Council has ruled that the One Church Plan is largely constitutional, while the Traditional Plan had more problems that must be addressed to pass a constitutional test. Because the Connectional Conference Plan would require constitutional changes, the Judicial Council said it lacked authority to review it. Learn more. GC2019 Registration: Guests and observers to the 2019 Special Session of the General Conference, The United Methodist Church’s top legislative assembly, may now pre-register online. General Conference will meet in St. Louis, Missouri at the America’s Center February 23-26, 2019. Learn more
Exponential 2019: Discipleship Ministries’ Path 1 has 100 tickets available at the discounted price of $99 for Exponential, an event for church planters that will be held March 4-7, 2019 in Orlando, FL. The theme is Made for More: Mobilizing God’s People, God’s Way. The $99 price will be available until Dec.15, but the 100 Path 1
tickets are on a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more about Exponential Register here
CAMP AND RETREAT CENTER EVENTS
CAMPING INITIATIVE UPDATE: Individuals and organizations external to WPAUMC can make an online contribution using their bank account
or credit card by clicking the brown button below; Individuals affiliated with WPAUMC should give through
their local church. Churches can also contribute online; they should continue to use the Local Church
Remittances page. Camping & Retreat Ministries – Bishop’s Initiative
Stay up-to-date and “like” the At The Lake Ministries Facebook page.
Wesley Woods Camp Wish List: If you, your church, or someone you know may be able to help fulfill these needs, please contact the office to see how you can become a partner in ministry with Wesley Woods.
For more information or to register for a retreat, click here www.olmstedmanor.org Olmsted 2019
Upcoming events at Olmsted Manor Event Page
“Overcoming. . .Finding freedom in Christ, learning to hear God’s voice and speak His Word for today.”
Weekend Retreat (Walking in the Prophetic) and Friday Pre-conference (Prevailing in the Battle Zone) on at
Jumonville. Keynote
Speaker: Dr. Rob McCorkle. Register
Sunday, April 21, 2019 Easter Sunrise Service
Sunday, May 5, 2019 Jumonville Spring Dinner
July 20-27, 2019 77th Annual Family Week
August 16, 2019 16th Kidz2Kamp Golf Fundraiser
Aug. 30 - Sept. 2, 2019 Singles Labor Day Weekend
September 15-18, 2019 M&M’s Reunion
www.jumonville.org
Night of Joy
Camp Allegheny Annual Fundraiser on Saturday, December 1 at 5 pm. Musical Mysteries and More joins us
this year for a Dinner Theater experience that will be completely new to Camp Allegheny! Presented by Camp
Allegheny and the Ready for Eternity Players. Night of Joy details
DISABILITIES
Taking a Stand for Disability Rights: Members of the Conference Disability Concerns Committee and UM clergy and church members in the Butler District are urging officials in the borough of Koppel to allow construction of group homes for people with disabilities. Learn more
A Disabled God: The Conference Disability Concerns Committee has prepared a Lenten devotional entitled A Disabled God. Download it
View on the Disability Concerns blog
SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS
UMC SCHOLARSHIPS There are a variety of scholarships at http://scholarship.umc.org/
RESOURCES
RESOURCE LINK http://www.wpaumc.org/resources
RESOURCE UMC If you don’t already, you may want to follow Resource UMC on Facebook (or #ResourceUMC on Twitter). Resource UMC connects churches and their leaders with inspirational and informational content, resources and products tailored to their needs. Visit www.facebook.com/ResourceUMC
Church Safety
Safety is becoming more and more of a concern at places of worship. What can church members do to help
keep your church safe, yet still welcoming? See some recommendations. Watch video
There Are No Small Churches
Steve Harper says serving small congregations was one of the best things that ever happened to him in
pastoral ministry. In a recent article for Ministry Matters, he explains how he learned there is no such thing as
a "small" church. Read more now.
3 Welcoming Strategies that Can Backfire
Ann Michel of the Lewis Center staff says that churches sometimes reach out to newcomers in ways that are
off-putting or even counterproductive. Unfortunately, several common, well-intended welcoming strategies
top the list of things that can make visitors uncomfortable or even turn them away. Read more now.
Safety and security at your organization
In the wake of Saturday’s tragic shooting in Pittsburgh, we grieve with those who
have lost their friends, family members and neighbors to another act of violence at
house of worship. If you need help making your organization and people more secure, please visit our safety
resources at churchmutual.com/armedintruder.
WPAUMC Anti-Racism Resources: In response to a request from Bishop Moore-Koikoi, the Conference Anti-Racism Team (ART) compiled a list of suggestions for Western PA churches to address racism. It can be downloaded from the Conference website Discussing Racism page.
Resurgence of Racism in U.S.: The Council of Bishops has expressed alarm at the resurgence of racism and pledged to continue the work of exposing and dismantling racism in whatever forms and wherever it presents
itself. Affirming a statement prepared by the Ebony Bishops group, they added: “We recognize that until our Anglo brothers and sisters are free of their racism and acknowledge their White privilege none of us will be free.” Read news story
Read Bishops’ statement.
Support Tree of Life Synagogue and the Jewish Community with a single Blue Light
As we continue to search for ways to support and care for the Tree of Life Synagogue
and the Jewish Community after the horrendous act of violence and hate a sign of solidarity,
support, and a statement against hate can begin with a Blue Light.
Consider changing one light bulb in your church’s sanctuary or entry way from a white bulb to a blue
light bulb. Keep the blue light in place until the Tree of Life Synagogue is able to return to a sanctuary for
worship. It has been shared that the sanctuary, riddled with bullets holes has been “defiled”. Where or when
the community will gather in that, or new, sacred space is unknown. We do know that worship will continue
in other temporary spaces. However, it is important for the community to know that our support will not
wane as the news coverage changes.
Why a blue light? In Judaism blue represents divinity and balance. I know we can all agree that we
need God’s presence to bring balance and peace in our divided world.
My first appointment as a part-time local pastor was to Fredericktown First UMC. In the sanctuary
there is a set of “Old Testament” stained glass windows. The windows were a gift from the former Jewish
Community of Fredericktown. The gift was presented to the congregation, and Rev. John Warman (later
Bishop John Warman) after he and the congregation had allowed the Jewish community to worship in the
church after their synagogue was burned down.
This is not only a Blue Light it is a proclamation of unity and a testament to our stand against hate.
MISSION
UMVIM upcoming Missions - United Methodist Volunteers in Mission Opportunities:
Zimbabwe (July 22-August 6, 2019) For Information, visit www.wpaumc.org/Opportunities or contact Sandra Matoushaya at [email protected]. MORE CLEANING BUCKETS NEEDED! An estimated 1500 Cleaning/Flood Buckets were distributed by East Brook Mission Barn. The buckets were distributed to at least eight counties in South Western/Central PA. The supply is now low and we encourage the
replacement of these buckets by making your contributions or sending your buckets through East Brook Mission Barn or by being in contact with Katie Peterson. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to call 814-442-5899.
Eastbrook Mission Barn – Ramps, relief supplies and Outreach. ALL ages can serve for one day in the New
Castle area. www.wpaumc.org/missionbarn
UMCOR Grants: UMCOR’s board of directors approved an unprecedented amount in the form of grants during the
annual spring board meeting. More than $46 million was awarded in support of disaster relief and recovery, global health
projects, and sustainable development. Learn more.
Top Tips from a Handbook for Mission Volunteers: Read some practical and theological tips for Volunteers in Mission from “A Mission Journey: A Handbook for Volunteers.”
HELPFUL LINKS
There's an updated list of continuing education opportunities at
wpaumc.org/leadershipdevelopment.
2019 WPA UM Annual Conference will be Thursday, June 6-Saturday, June 8, 2019.
Clergy: Plan your vacation, weddings, mission trips, etc. around these dates and plan to attend.
Appointments
Call To Ministry
Camping
Classifieds
Clergy Resources
Leader Development
Obituaries
Online Payments
Historical Records
Mission News
Technology for Ministry
DISTRICT CONTACT INFORMATION
Butler District Office
Email: [email protected] (Rev. Eric Park)
[email protected] (Thelma Castor)
Western PA Conference The United Methodist Church Butler District
1204 Freedom Road P.O. Box 5002
Cranberry Township, PA 16066-0002
Phone: 724-252-3198
Email addresses
Rev Eric Park – [email protected]
Thelma Castor – Butler.Off [email protected]