A monthly publication of the First United Methodist Church

The Voice Rev. Dr. Brian Bosworth, Pastor

Rev. Ricky Harrison, Associate Pastor

(940) 627-3362; info@decaturmethodist.org

Issue 3 of 12

March 1, 2018

Children: Ashley Craven Youth: Patrick Steil

Administrator: Bonnie Wohlleben

In the last movie in which John Wayne starred (entitled “The Shootist”), Wayne’s character appears

to learn a new phrase that described the unusual warm weather portrayed in the film (and also the strange

reversal between new life and growth, which is often equated with the season of spring, and the preparations

of a dying gunfighter). That phrase, “a false spring,” would be used moments later by Wayne in a

conversation with another character, as if Wayne had used it all his life. I find it interesting how quickly we

take or adopt new ideas, thoughts, and concepts into our individual collection of understandings and then

share them with others.

I am not saying this is a bad thing. In fact, learning new ideas or finding alternative ways to express our experiences can

be quite helpful. In the movie, Bond Rogers (Lauren Bacall’s character) uses the term as a way to transition the conversation she

is having with J.B. Books (Wayne’s character) through a difficult goodbye for the characters. Wayne then uses the term to

reassure a young woman (and his own character I believe) a few moments later as he prepares himself for the finale of the

movie.

Maybe in this instance, it is the “false” that catches my attention. We often can and do really good and important things

in life. These good and important things can be our priority and we can value them just like we value each spring that ushers in

renewal of life and signs of new birth after a long, cold winter. We know we can count on the green replacing the gray. We can

expect leaves to repopulate the barren branches, and the promise of warm days that grow longer. But there are signs that can

also mislead us about our seasons. We must remain vigilant and prepared.

In the context of church seasons, we are now in the season of Lent. For many of us, this is not our favorite season. We

would rather hear about the miracles of healing and the lost receiving good news. We would rather walk with Jesus along the

shores of Galilee or stand near him as we watch him embrace the little children. But this season is necessary for us. It gives us a

needed perspective on our relationship with God. It helps to remind us of our sense of often misguided priorities and what

discipleship actually entails, all in the face of our “false springs.”

The Lenten Season allows the Easter experience to be more profound for us. It helps to remind us how costly our

relationship is for God, but also for us. We live in a world where we want express lanes, quick fixes, and less resistance. Lent

reminds us that faith is intentional and can be costly. Maybe jumping ahead to Easter or simply finding something else to do

instead of embracing Lent is like a “false spring.” Perhaps we need to be reminded that “false springs” can entrap us and even

keep us from experiencing the true power of life and hope. Stay mindful and focused this Lent.

The journey is just beginning and it is never too late. Come join us and sense God’s power and love as we move toward

Jerusalem and the empty tomb of Easter.

See you in worship!

Brian

Reconnect – Second Term Begins March 21

The second half of Reconnect is set to begin on Wednesdays starting with March 21 and

runs thru Wednesday, May 2. There will be no Reconnect during Holy Week (March 28).

We will be using Rob Bell’s book entitled “What Is the Bible?” and each week’s session

will be built upon a brief presentation of a different troubling question about the Bible that

Bell raises. Roy Eaton will help moderate a time of Q&A with Pastors Brian and Ricky.

Decatur Cares Mobile Food Pantry Saturday, March 3

7:45 a.m., DISD Admin Building

Wise County United Methodist Men

Tuesday, March 6 6:30 p.m., Oak Grove UMC

Staff Meeting

Thursday, March 8 12:00 p.m., Room 209

Daylight Savings Time

Sunday, March 11

UMCOR Sunday

(Formerly One Great Hour of Sharing.) Sunday, March 11

Spring Break March 12 - 16

Administrative Board Meeting

Sunday, March 18 12:00 p.m., Fellowship Hall

Family Ministries Team Meeting

Monday, March 19 5:00 p.m., Room 209 (Character Builders)

Trustees Meeting

Tuesday, March 20 6:30 p.m., Room 209

Methodist Men’s Breakfast

Saturday, March 24 7:00 a.m., Room 100 (Fellowship Hall)

Palm Sunday

Sunday, March 25

Holy Week Noon-Time Services

Monday, March 26 - Friday, March 30 12:05 p.m., Sanctuary

(Lunch Following)

CHURCH FRIENDS AND FAMILY

Madolyn Congdon, Family of Darrell Bender, Ken Roselle, Family of Roy Harlan, Dena Silvers, Sandra Little, Barbara Swan, Clista Rakow, Dane Fitzgerald, Dave Eaton, Loretta Wohlleben,

Ava Steil, Willard Howell, Patsy Howell, Noah Smith, Tim Woodruff

In the Military: Charlie Fortenberry, Michael Jordan, Jake Logue, Josh Murphy, Chris Hammond,

Matthew Roberson, Kolin Rottner, Joshua VanNoy, Keygun Beaver and Bryce Dudley

2 - Autumn Wright

3 - Jessica Baker, Rick Fennewald

4 - Peggy Cundiff

5 - Shirley Byers, Jessica Frizzell, Kay Lane,

Renee McDonald, Chris Shenkir

6 - Betty Carson, Brian Knox

10 - Marguarette Roberts

12 - Hunter Helm

14 - Regina Cocanougher, Arnie Deaton

15 - Cale Cartwright, Sheri Claborn

16 - Brian Bosworth, Alan Lane

17 - Stuart Highlander, Arden Hunt

18 - Barbara Swan

19 - Rose Ramsey, Julie Stone

20 - Shirley Peterson

21 - Ashlee Bohn, Hayden Browning, Justin Hafer

22 - Nolan Sewell, Alexis Tally

23 - Jeannine Eaton, Flora Lambert, Emmy Mobley,

Abby Reeves

24 - Emma Reeves

25 - Troy Marshall, Andrew Sandford

27 - Lexie Miller

29 - Cathy Chapman, Audree Knox

30 - Gloria Murphree

31 - Susan Huston, Jana Woodruff

March

Happenings

March

Birthdays

The Preschool has been so blessed by anonymous do-

nations. I am happy to report that we were able to

give a complete scholarship for the remainder of the

school year to a student in need. Isn't it amazing how

God always provides exactly what we need? I learn

about His faithfulness through your generosity.

To God be the glory!

"I will praise you, O Lord, among the nations; I will

sing of you among the peoples. For great is your

love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness

reaches to the skies." Psalm 57: 9-10

Submitted by: Bonnie Hubbard, Preschool Director

Donations for WARM

Canned Goods (Fruits & Vegetables)

Sunday Refreshments

Open Doors Class

Guest Follow Up Mardell Schaible

Care Corp

Barbara Haley, Notifier Sally Rieger, Dena Silvers

Marguarette Roberts, Cynthia DesRoches

March 4th

8:30 a.m. Worship Service Scripture Reader: Barbara Haley

Communion Servers: Thomas Laird & Tom Tumelty Acolyte: Ben Bond

10:50 a.m. Worship Service Scripture Reader: Trumanell Maples

Communion: Junior Sconce & Cheryl Renfro Acolyte: Kennedy Hafer

Counters: Andrew Sandford & Junior Sconce

March 11th 8:30 a.m. Worship Service

Scripture Reader: Rita Tucker Communion Servers: Margaurette Roberts & Virginia Caraway

Acolyte: Abby Reeves 10:50 a.m. Worship Service

Scripture Reader: Fred Renfro Acolytes: Wylie Stone & Tucker Hammons

Counters: Gary Cocanougher & Jana Rosenbaum

March 18th 8:30 a.m. Worship Service Scripture Reader: Youth

Communion Servers: Youth Acolyte: Audree & Zachary Knox

10: 50 a.m. Worship Service Scripture Reader: Youth

Acolyte: Nolan & Shelby Sewell Counters: Foster Walker & Annette Stephens

March 25th 8:30 a.m. Worship Service

Scripture Reader: Virginia Caraway Communion Servers: Jamie Walther & Jane Pemberton

Acolyte: 10: 50 a.m. Worship Service

Scripture Reader: Murvelle Chandler Acolyte: Julie Stone & Parker Deaton

Counters: Clay Patterson

March Communion Set Up: Open Doors Class

Dear Heavenly Father, We stand in awe of Your vast creation. Although wide oceans

and great land masses separate us from our partner church,

Strasnice UMC in Prague, Czech Republic, we have bonded

as brothers and sisters in Your world to follow the teachings of

Your Son, Jesus Christ and to spread Your Word throughout

our communities. We ask that You guide us to pray for one

another and to reach out to each other. Bless and guide us as

we work to build and strengthen our respective churches.

These things we ask in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen

Submitted by: Dave Eaton

Prayer Prayer for our sister church in

the Czech Republic

FUMC Mission Statement

“Making disciples of Jesus Christ for the

transformation of the world.”

Choir Cantata Celebrate the resurrection with And the Son Arose, a compelling 25 minute musical for Easter. Through the eyes of those who witnessed the ministry of Christ first-hand, the musical unfolds with a blend of classic Easter hymns, new songs and contemporary favorites… all framed with the timeless words of the Gospel. Sing the eternal promise of Easter with And the Son Arose.

Sunday, March 25th 10:50 Service

Our Maundy Thursday Service this year is set for 6pm on

March 29th. This is the evening that Christians commemo-

rate the supper Jesus shared with his disciples before his

crucifixion. Our Maundy Thursday experience will in-

clude hand washing (or foot washing for those who pre-

fer), as well as Holy Communion. This is a powerful

evening of experience intended to move you closer to the

realization of God’s love for you.

This service will occur at the

Methodist Activity Center (the

MAC).

We are partnering with Alvord and Rhome

UMC in a joint Good Friday Service at 6pm

on Friday, March 30th. This service of darkness

will move worshippers as the story of Jesus’

passion is retold and the light is extinguished.

The service begins at 6pm in the Sanctuary of

Decatur FUMC.

Maundy Thursday Service

Czech Committee Members Needed

The Czech Church Committee needs YOU. Please join with us in

helping Pastor Filip Gartner and his congregation of Strasnice UMC in

Prague grow their church and make disciples of Jesus Christ in the

largely atheist Czech Republic. Contribute your fresh ideas and

energy to our very challenging and rewarding work.

Sign up on the list in the narthex or contact the church office.

For questions ask or call Dave Eaton, 817-403-3177.

The Youth Zone Well, we had a busy February! 6 Middle School and 1 Senior High student (and myself) went to the

Midwinter Retreat at Bridgeport Camp. It was a fun (BUT VERY COLD!) retreat. We met new friends, got

closer to God and some good bonding was had.

Our Confirmation students met for one class this month (and most went to the retreat) and then also we

went to the Bishop's Rally in Plano. This was quick but another fun way to connect with other Methodists in

our Conference.

Just an update on Summer Mission Trip. If you don't already know, we are headed to Rockport TX (ground

zero for where Hurricane Harvey hit in August 2017). We currently have 22 youth and 6 adults signed up to

go! (This includes 3 youth and 1 adult from our sister church in the Czech Republic).

What an awesome trip that will be! Upcoming Events

Sunday, March 4

Confirmation Class

4:00 p.m., Firehall

Sunday, March 18

Confirmation Class

4:00 p.m., Firehall

Sundays

9:45am Sunday School

5:45pm Game Night & Sr. High Bible Study

Wednesdays

5:45pm UMYF

Sunday School Volunteers

1st Sunday - Sharon Walker, Penny Holt, Jamie Milliman

2nd Sunday - Megan Claborn, Stacey Sandford

3rd Sunday - Debra Walker, Heather

4th Sunday - Barbara Haley, Regina Stone

Join us each Sunday for a fun-filled hour of Sunday School.

Ages 1-3 years old Location: Main building, 2nd floor in Nursery.

Ages 4 years - 5th grade Location: Main building on the 3rd floor.

9:40 am - 10:40 am

Questions? Email me anytime at

children@decaturmethodist.org

CIA Missions

Due to weather, our CIA mission for February had to be moved to March 17th. We will meet at Wise County Animal shelter at 10am and serve until 11 a.m.

Sunday School Focus

*Bartimaeus Shouts to Jesus

*Jesus Breaks the Bread

*People Welcome Jesus

*The Tomb Is Empty

Blessings on the one who

comes in the name of the Lord!

Matthew 21:9

Children will perform a special

song for the congregation during

EARLY service on Palm Sunday.

The song is, Every Move I Make.

Children’s Annual Easter Egg hunt will be Sunday, April 1 at the MAC during

the Sunday School hour.

We will have donuts and a fun filled hour. Please have kiddos bring an

Easter basket. Everyone is welcome to join in the FUN!

Living Towards Resurrection

Recently I’ve been staring at a compass on my desk, watching the “true north” needle remain stubborn-

ly pointed in the same direction no matter how much I fiddle with or spin the compass itself. That’s the beauty

of a compass, no matter what part of the world you are in or how lost you may feel, a compass will always

point you north. During Lent, we see a decisive turn in Jesus as he begins to orient himself towards Jerusalem –

the place of rejection, suffering, and death. He stubbornly and vigilantly walks the road with his disciples lead-

ing to the cross. He has a clear sense of direction, a persistent orientation towards a death that ultimately leads to resurrection life.

I wonder what it might look like if we were able to as persistently orient our own lives towards death and resurrection. What might

it mean to have our guiding needle always pointed towards self-denial and cross-carrying discipleship? How might our daily living

change if we were always expectantly hoping for the sunrise of resurrection with each new dawn? This Lent, as I’ve been fixated

on this compass, I have been challenged to “re-orient” my own daily living towards death and resurrection. In practice, this looks

like trying to value the deep needs and suffering of others above concern for my own comfort and interests; it means expecting

God to bring new life out of even the most dark and devastating circumstances.

For the Launch Team working towards planting this new faith community anchored in First Methodist, we have begun to

orient ourselves towards resurrection. Our prayer is that this new faith community will mean new life for people who have been

disconnected from Christian community. It is our prayer that the new life each of us has found in Jesus Christ will embody the

hope of the resurrection for a new generation. We have our “true north” needle vigilantly set on Easter morning. As we celebrate

God’s planting of this new community, we will gather together at sunrise on Easter as a witness that God is raising us to new life,

that we are an Easter people. As we worship together, we will sing songs of resurrection, give witness to how God is giving each

of us new life, and proclaim the good news that death & destruction do not have the last word. We will join in the chorus of the

Good News echoing down the corridors of time, “Christ is risen, he is risen indeed!”

“Resurrection means the worst thing is never the last thing”

-Frederick Buechner

In Christ,

Ricky Harrison

A Great Gift for Your Loved Ones:

Putting Your House in Order

Would you like to know that your generosity will

continue even after your death? Have you had conversa-

tion with your loved ones about the values you would most

like to pass on?

Do you have a will? Have you thought about who should

have your most precious possessions after you have died?

Would you like to greatly relieve the stress upon your fam-

ilies when it comes time to plan your funeral? Do you know the tax advantages of remembering the church and other

charitable organizations in your legacy giving?

If you are interested in questions like these, you are invited to a workshop on Sunday, April, at 15, at

12:15 p.m. called Putting Your House in Order, sponsored by the Texas Methodist Foundation. In addition to address-

ing some of the questions above, the workshop is meant to prepare you for a visit to the professionals who can most

help you with your particular wills and estate planning questions.

The workshop, led by Rev. Carol Montgomery, Area Representative for North Texas for the Texas Methodist

Foundation, includes a workbook in which a person can record all the important information that will help loved ones

with funeral planning and with the probate process. The workshop costs $10 per participant and will be held in Asbury

Hall (in the MAC). Lunch will be provided for workshop participants. Please register for the workshop by placing your

name on the sign-up sheet in the Narthex or by contacting the Church Office.

www.decaturmethodist.org

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Decatur, Texas 76234-0302 Permit No. 166

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

THIS NEWSLETTER CREATED ESPECIALLY FOR

YOU!

Thursday, March 29 8:30 a.m.—Character Builders Classroom

Monday, March 26 at 1:00 p.m.

For any submissions you would like put in The Voice, either call the church office at 627-3362 or email administrator@decaturmethodist.org. If you want to see your church event pictures in The Voice, send them to us! We would love to include those for all the church members to enjoy.

DIRECTORIES ARE HERE!

If you had your photo taken,

you can pick up your directory

from the church office.

FUMC Decatur in ACTION!

Twenty-eight folks were served with our drive-thru Ashes

& coffee on Ash Wednesday, while another 28 were served

at Wise Health System throughout the day, and culminated

with 105 worshippers at the traditional Ash Wednesday

Service that evening.

Our fearless leaders

at the Bishop’s Rally!

UMCOR Sunday (Formerly One Great Hour of Sharing)

Sunday, March 11th

Easter Lillies Order Easter Lilies in honor or in memory of a loved one. Deadline to order March 18.

This year, Holy Week begins March 25th with Palm Sunday.

Monday thru Friday, we are proud once again to offer the community noontime

worship opportunities at 12:05 pm each weekday.

Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services that week both begin at 6:00 pm.

March 25 Palm Sunday Children Singing 8:30am; Easter Cantata 10:50 am

Noon

March 26 Monday – 12:05 Pastor Darren Embree, Crossroads Church, Decatur

March 27 Tuesday – 12:05 Rev. Georgia Harrison, FUMC Wichita Falls

March 28 Wednesday – 12:05 Rev. Steve Martinez, FUMC Bowie

March 29 Thursday – 12:05 Rev. Shelly McNew, Oak Grove UMC, Decatur

March 30 Friday – 12:05 Shawne Ware, Director of CASA of Wise County

Evening

March 29 Maundy Thursday - 6pm Holy Communion (Asbury Hall – MAC)

March 30 Good Friday – 6pm Service of Darkness (Sanctuary)

Thanks to everyone, including our faithful Sunday School classes for the weekday lunches, for

making Holy Week a powerful experience and one we are bold to share with the entire

community!