April 2012, Volume IX, Issue IV From the Pastor€¦ · April 2012, Volume IX, Issue IV Jesus said,...

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April 2012, Volume IX, Issue IV Jesus said, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). “For most, discipleship has become so complicated that it is no longer an easy burden and a light load. But Jesus intends for the Christian life to be easy and light and to bring rest to our souls. Fulfillment of the Great Commission is meant to be restful not stressful” (Neil Cole – Search and Rescue – Becoming a Disciple Who Makes a Difference. Perhaps it is human nature to take something simple and complicate it. Sometimes we get into the habit of over-explaining. I guess there are things that just seem too simple so we try to make it appear more complex by adding unnecessary explanations. We take, for example, salvation by faith through the love of God and write volumes on the subject. We often read the volumes written about scripture without reading the scripture passage itself. We create long, complicated confirmation processes in order to receive persons into the church and often neglect their relationship with God. We pass out things like the Four Spiritual Laws and treat them as the requirement to be saved, rather than the result of justifying grace. As an example of why we have the Ten Commandments, let me put forth the following: “Think of the teenager’s relief when the parent names a curfew. Though the teen seldom thanks the parent, now she will not have to wrestle within herself to decide when to be home. In many ways, the Ten Commandments function like that for the Israelites; now they (and us) have some clarity. We now know the expectations and know a way to fulfill them.” Responding to God’s invitation to discipleship was never meant to be complicated, but rather a simple response to God’s love and grace. Grace and Peace, Don Tabler, Pastor From the Pastor Inside this issue: From the Pastor 1 April Worship & Events 2 Worship Matters 3 Fellowship 3 Men’s Fellowship 3 Mission News 4 Confirmation Corner 4 UMW/Women’s 5 Christian Education Corner 6 Minnow Pond News 6 Youth News 7 CUMC Mailbox 7 Music Notes 8 Birthdays 8 Unto Eternal Life 9 Homebound Friends 9 Stephen Ministry 14

Transcript of April 2012, Volume IX, Issue IV From the Pastor€¦ · April 2012, Volume IX, Issue IV Jesus said,...

Page 1: April 2012, Volume IX, Issue IV From the Pastor€¦ · April 2012, Volume IX, Issue IV Jesus said, ... Choir trip to Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir (1 ... So go and experience this celebration

April 2012, Volume IX, Issue IV

Jesus said, “Come to Me, all who areweary and heavy-laden, and I willgive you rest. Take My yoke uponyou and learn from Me, for I amgentle and humble in heart, andyou will find rest for your souls.

For My yoke is easy and My burdenis light” (Matthew 11:28-30).

“For most, discipleship has become so complicated that it is no longer an easy burden and a light load. But Jesus intends for the Christian life to be easy and light and to bring rest to our souls. Fulfillment of the Great Commission is meant to be restful not stressful” (Neil Cole – Search and Rescue – Becoming a Disciple Who Makes a Difference.

Perhaps it is human nature to take something simple and complicate it. Sometimes we get into the habit of over-explaining. I guess there are things that just seem too simple so we try to make it appear more complex by adding unnecessary explanations.

We take, for example, salvation by faith through the love of God and write volumes on the subject. We often read the volumes written about scripture without reading the scripture passage itself. We create long, complicated confirmation processes in order to receive persons into the church and often neglect their relationship with God. We pass out things like the Four Spiritual Laws and treat them as the requirement to be saved, rather than the result of justifying grace.

As an example of why we have the Ten Commandments, let me put forth the following: “Think of the teenager’s relief when the parent names a curfew. Though the teen seldom thanks the parent, now she will not have to wrestle within herself to decide when to be home. In many ways, the Ten Commandments function like that for the Israelites; now they (and us) have some clarity. We now know the expectations and know a way to fulfill them.”

Responding to God’s invitation to discipleship was never meant to be complicated, but rather a simple response to God’s love and grace.

Grace and Peace,

Don Tabler, Pastor

From the PastorInside

this issue:From the Pastor 1

April

Worship & Events 2

Worship Matters 3

Fellowship 3

Men’s Fellowship 3

Mission News 4

Confirmation Corner 4

UMW/Women’s 5

Christian

Education Corner 6

Minnow Pond News 6

Youth News 7

CUMC Mailbox 7

Music Notes 8

Birthdays 8

Unto Eternal Life 9

Homebound Friends 9

Stephen Ministry 14

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2 April 2012

FISH HospitalityFISH HOSPITALITY NEEDS YOU.... Christ United Methodist Church is a host congregation for the FISH Hospitality Program. As a host congregation, we provide the meals, shelter and assistance to the FISH guests for one week at a time. How do we do this? — through the members and friends of our church who volunteer to cook meals, donate groceries, sleep overnight and spend time with the guests in the evenings. The schedule that we follow is:

Evening meal - 6:00 p.m. Evening hosts - 7:00 to 9:30 p.m. Overnight hosts - 9:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m.

Please consider how you may put your time and talent to use in this rewarding ministry. Our next hosting week begins on Easter Sunday and runs through April 15th. Sign-up sheets are in the Narthex.

FISH HOSPITALITY ANNUAL YARD SALE/FLEA MARKET The FISH Yard Sale/Flea Market will be held on Saturday, June 2nd at Our Lady of Mount Virgin R.C. Church, 450 Drake Avenue, Middlesex, NJ. The time is 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Table space is $20 each or van space is $25. Donations for the FISH tables may be left at the school on Friday, June 1st between 4 and 6:30 p.m. Volunteers are needed to set up and clean up and also to sell items at the FHP tables.

Please call the FISH office (732-968-5957) to let them know how you might be able to help.

APRIL WoRshIP & EvEnt sApril 1: Holy Week begins, Cantata (8:00 and 10:30am),

Choir trip to Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir (1:30pm), Youth Groups (4:00-6:00pm)

April 2: Lenten study (7:30pm) April 3: Stephen Ministry (7:30pm) April 4: Lenten study (10:00am),

Mid-day Lenten Service and Lunch (12:15pm) April 5: Maundy Thursday service (7:30pm) April 6: Good Friday service (7:30pm) April 7: Resurrection Egg Hunt (10:00am), Chancel

Guild set up (10:00am), Gospel Choir (12:00pm) April 8: Easter sunrise service (6:30am @ New Market

gazebo), Easter worship (8:00am and 10:30am), FISH Hospitality week begins

April 9: Office closed

April 10: Gospel Choir (7:00pm) April 11: Finance Ministry Team meeting (7:45pm) April 14: Men’s Fellowship Breakfast (8:00am),

Epiphany Food Outreach, UMW Spa Day (9am-3pm)

April 15: Music Ministry Staff Meeting (12:00pm), Youth Praise Team (12:00-2:00pm), Youth Groups (4:00-6:00pm)

April 17: Stephen Ministry (7:30pm) April 19: Youth Praise Team (6:00-9:00pm) April 21: Church Work Day (8:30am-12:00pm),

Camp Lenape Open House (12:00-2:00pm) April 22: Missions Day, Youth Praise (12:00-2:00pm) April 28: Gospel Choir (12:00pm),

Cantabile Concert (7:30pm)

Lawn Mowers NeededOh, we don’t mean the mechanical kind! Spring is in the air. Are you looking for a way to help your church while enjoying the great outdoors? We have the perfect opportunity for YOU. We supply the lawn mowers and the grass; all you need is time and energy. Contact Sallie Trainor 732-752-4214, if you are interested in donating some time to help keep our church’s lawn looking trim. Other volunteer positions for outside help are also available.

The Trustees

Katharine P. Iola of Somerset passed away in her sleep on March 13, 2012. Kathy was predeceased by her sister, Anna Burger, and leaves behind her daughter Valerie LaBoy, son-in-law Joseph LaBoy, her son Robert Iola, Jr., and daughter-in-law Kathleen M. Iola, as well as two grandchildren, Daniel Rack and Grace Iola.

Please keep Katharine’s extended family in your thoughts through this difficult time.

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April 2012 3

I want to say thank you to everyone who helped in any way with the Shrove Pancake dinner. It was a huge success and I know the kids enjoyed the night.

A special thank you to both Anna Mantell and her daughter, Jackie, who did a lot of the prep work. Anna, you and your Committee can make pancakes for us any time.

For those of you who could not make it, we had a choice of chocolate chip, apple cinnamon, blueberry and plain pancakes. Also scrambled eggs and sausage and bacon. Wow, I am getting full just writing this.

And yet there is more food to come. As many of you have probably heard, this year’s Easter Sunrise service is being held at New Market Pond in Piscataway at 6:30am (sunrise). I am told the service is about 20-25 minutes long and we will have the sunrise breakfast back at our church. So go and experience this celebration of our risen Lord and come back to Christ United Methodist Church and enjoy a scrumptious sunrise breakfast.

Future events ahead are the Somerset Patriots’ game (tentative date is July 27th) and, of course, the church picnic at Mike and Lois Hatolski’s home on June 3rd.

Happy Easter everyone! HE IS RISEN!

Shalom,

Elsa MortensenAnna Mantell

F e l l o w s h i p N e w s

A reminder of services for Holy week:

Palm Sunday, April 1st, Cantata - 8:00am & 10:30am servicesMaundy (Holy) Thursday, April 5th, 7:30pm serviceGood Friday service - April 6th, 7:30pm Youth lead serviceEaster Sunday, April 8th - Sunrise Service about 6:30am with breakfast to follow. Keep an eye on the bulletin for exact time.

8:00am Service 10:30am Service

Here’s an advance look at May: Services every Sunday, 8:00 & 10:30 with light refreshments in Fellowship Hall Sunday, May 13th - Mother’s Day Sunday, May 27th - Pentecost

W O R S H I P M A T T E R S

DON’T GET “OVERTAXED” – TAKE A BREAK WITH THE MEN OF CHRIST UMC ON SATURDAY, APRIL 14!

The approach of Tax Day can be scary for even the bravest of men. But fear not! We are with you. Set aside the tax tables and come to our table. After you’ve rendered unto Uncle Sam, join us for rendering unto God. It may not be deductible but you’ll have a good breakfast, great fellowship and a chance to look into the Word with your fellow Christian men. So, come to the Fontainbleau Diner on Stelton Road at 8:00 AM on Saturday, April 14. You may still have to finish up the taxes but you’ll feel a lot better about doing it! Call Dan Conklin at 732-885-1648 or Tim Espar at 732-469-7475 for more information (but not for tax advice!)

Men’s Fellowship

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4 April 2012

First, I would like to thank all of those that commented on the article “It Just Does Not Fit” submitted for the last issue. As an editor of a newsletter, it is refreshing to know that someone is actually reading your efforts.

Speaking as an editor, it is sometimes necessary to actually “edit” an offering. That is true also when it comes to making a perfect offering fit our lawn sign. I do get many ideas that would make great messages but, as we have said, some just do not fit. So, at times, all it takes is a little editing on my part.

The following was one used many, many months ago; “Is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire?” It has just too many letters. However, if we remove the second word “your” it works….”Is prayer your steering wheel or spare tire.” The message is still the same. Well, you get the idea.

Following are a few other messages that would not fit. “Patience is when you listen silently to someone tell about the same operation you had.” Or “We are never more right with God than when we admit we are wrong.” Or this one, “You can’t get eyestrain from looking on the bright side.” One more…“If your Bible is in good shape, chances are you aren’t.”

Until next time….“keep those cards and letters coming”. The Sign Guy

Mission NewsMISSION DAY IS APRIL 22, 2012The Mission Committee’s focus this year for Mission Day is Haiti and our guest speaker is Rev. Franck Aguilh. Rev. Aguilh is

the retired pastor of First United Methodist Church of Montclair where he served for many years. Upon his retirement, Rev. Aguilh, a native of Haiti, returned to his homeland after the devastation of the January 12, 2010 earthquake to minister to and to help his fellow Haitians, and he now travels to Haiti several times during the year. He founded Haiti Hope House whose mission statement is: “To seek opportunities to help educate Haitian children, and train young adults in marketable skills in partnership with existing organizations and local communities in order to equip them for a better future and give them hope.” What a wonderful mission! On Sunday, April 22, our Mission Committee will have a free will offering to help Rev. Aguilh with this ministry.

IT JUST DOES NOT FITBy The Sign Guy

Special Offering on April 22 Supports Native American MinistriesWe will observe Native American Ministries Sunday, one of six churchwide special offering Sundays during the year, on April 22. Native American Ministries Sunday recognizes and supports the contributions of Native Americans to church and society.

Money collected allows the United Methodist Church to collaborate with existing Native American ministries and create programs on behalf of Native Americans. The funds also support seminary scholarships for United Methodist Native Americans.

Approximately 22,000 United Methodists identify themselves as Native American. About 140 United Methodist churches, fellowships and ministries relate to this population.

Participating in this special offering is easy. Put your contribution in the envelope that will be incorporated in the Native American Ministries bulletin insert on April 22.

For more information on Native American Ministries Sunday, visit www.umcgiving.org.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY UPDATEThe missions team has been in contact with Rev. Montgomery at Habitat regarding a Saturday work date in Plainfield this spring. Due to pending permits, a definite date could not be confirmed at this time. The possible Saturday dates are May 19, June 2, or June 9. As soon as we know, a notice will be put in the weekly bulletin. Thanks for your continued interest!

Confirmation CornerConfirmands and mentors are welcome to visit Zarephath Christian Church on Saturday, April 21 at 5:00pm. Please sign up on the bulletin board if you’re interested in going. A visit to a temple will also be arranged in the near future.

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April 2012 5

UMW/Women’s Fellowship

2012 UMW DatesApril 14 (Saturday): Fashion Show, 12:00 p.m. -3:00 p.m.

May 20 (Sunday): Spring Tea, 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. “Tea That Warms the Heart and Soul”July 17 (Tuesday): Book Discussion – 7:30 p.m., “The Noticer” by Andy Andrews

August 15 (Wednesday): Movie Night, 7:00 p.m. “Courageous”September 21-22 (Friday – Saturday): Mini-Retreat, 9:00 a.m. -3:00 p.m.

“Glorious Vessels” featuring Darlene EasonOctober 24 (Wednesday): Annual Meeting: Domestic Violence? Not Here! Panel Discussion, 7:30 p.m.

November 3 (Saturday): Bazaar, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.December 1 (Saturday): Advent Brunch, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. “Prepare the Way!”

Fashion ShowApril 14, 2012Noon-3:00pmBountiful Salad Lunch

Followed by fashions by Dress Barn & Fashion Bug

Musical entertainment included, DJ! Door prizes!

Proceeds will go to Video-Projection SystemPre sale tickets - $20 Seniors - $15 Under 12 - $10 At the door - $25 Max per family - $50

Fancy Free: Ballads, Mouth Music, and More Saturday, April 28, 2012 at 7:30 pm

Music Director, Rebecca Scott conducts the Cantabile Chamber Chorale in performing music that is straight from the heart with vivid lyrics, lively melodies, and tantalizing rhythms, featuring several songs

composed and arranged by Gwyneth Walker, with works by Donald Patriquin, Janika Vandervelk, Gabriel Fauré, and Herbert Howells.

General admission in advance: $15; $20 at the door; Seniors/Students: $12 in advance; $15 at the door. Children 12 yrs. and under: $6

More information and advance ticket orders: www.cantabilechamberchorale.org or Phone: 732-560-7132

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6 April 2012

March 1st was Minnow Pond’s seventh anniversary. Our school has grown from three children in one class to 46 children in three classes!! We have a staff of eight wonderfully dedicated professionals, who teach our 2 ½ year olds to 5 year olds about themselves and the world around them. Over the past seven years, our curriculum has proven to be outstanding. Our Christian component completes the program, meeting the needs of our children not only socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually, but spiritually, as well.

All of this allows Minnow Pond to enjoy an exceptional reputation in our community. Most Minnow Ponders come to us from referrals from our families, past and present.

We have already begun to look forward to our next school year, with two of our three classes nearly at full enrollment for September. Minnow Pond also looks forward to many more years as a part of the ministry here at CUMC!

In His service,Debbie Heinbach, Director

On Easter, we celebrate Christ’s resurrection, a promise of a new life. “To all who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God”. John12:12 May you share the joy of spring and celebration of life renewed!

CUMC’s Annual Resurrection Egg Hunt will be held for children on Saturday, April 7th, from 10am-11:30am in Fellowship Hall. There will be egg decorating, games, sharing the story of Jesus’ Resurrection, and the hunt for the Golden Egg! Family and friends are welcome. Please bring your baskets.

Christian Education Corner

The Reason for God –New Adult Discussion and Video Class StudyOn Sunday, April 22, the Adult Discussion and Video class will begin a new study: How to engage others in dialogue on six common objections to Christianity. The Reason for God is a resource for what to say in response to these objections, and a model for how to say it. The session titles are:

Discussion 1. Isn’t the Bible a Myth? Hasn’t Science Disproved Christianity? Discussion 2. How Can You Say There Is Only One Way to God? What About Other Religions? Discussion 3. What Gives You the Right to Tell Me How to Live My Life? Why Are There So Many Rules?Discussion 4. Why Does God Allow Suffering? Why Is There So Much Evil in the World? Discussion 5. Why Is the Church Responsible for So Much Injustice? Why Are Christians Such Hypocrites?Discussion 6. How Can God Be Full of Love and Wrath at the Same Time? How Can God Send Good People to Hell?

Join us in the Choir Room, which is across from the Church office during, the Sunday School hour for this new DVD series and enlightening discussion.

The United Methodist Church - Young People’s MinistriesSCHOLARSHIPS

The division currently offers two scholarships, the Richard S. Smith Scholarship and the David W. Self Scholarship, for United Methodist students entering their freshman year of college in the United States. These are available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents of the United States.

The applications for the upcoming academic year are due no later than June 1st. The purpose of these scholarships is to aid United Methodist students who are continuing their self-development through higher education. These awards are for the first year undergraduate study, are non-renewable, and may be up to $1,000 for full-time study.

Check out http://globalyoungpeople.org/grants-scholarship

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April 2012 7

At the time this article was written, youth were preparing for their first “Soles for Souls Spaghetti Dinner” on March 31st. We hope you were able to support the mission by donating shoes and enjoying a fun night of pasta and karaoke. We will report results in the May newsletter, but thank you to everyone who shopped, cooked, served, ate, donated and otherwise supported the event!

Our B1 kickoff has passed and now participants are seeking sponsors for this 24-hour fast. The fast will take place from 6pm Friday, May 4th through 6pm Saturday, May 5th. We will sleep at church and fast for 24 hours to raise money and awareness for the hunger crisis in our world. Similar to the 30 Hour Famine, we will do a mission project, fun activities and ask for sponsors to make a difference in the problem of hunger and preventable hunger-related diseases.We are each promising to B1: Fast Today, Change Tomorrow.

Dates to remember:April 1 and April 15: Youth Group Meetings, 4-6pmMay 4-May 5: B1 24-Hour FastMay 13: Mother’s Day Plant Sale (The youth need to participate in the plant sale setting up, selling at each service, etc.)May 20: Youth Group Meeting, 4-6pmJune 23: Year End Event: Dorney ParkMark your calendar! Tickets will be on sale next month and must be paid for in advance (discounted price!)

YOUTH NEWSJYF = Junior Youth Fellowship, grades 6-8 YD = Young Disciples, grades 9-12

Finding The Job You Really Want - Free SeminarThe topics are relevant to those who are unemployed or who anticipate having to make a job change:

Positioning Yourself in a Difficult Job Market - (March 12) •How to Communicate Your Value - (March 19) •Getting the Job You Should Want/How to Figure Where to Go in Your Next Career - (March 26) •How to Introduce Yourself, Build Confidence and Project a Winning Image/ Crafting the Elevator and Two Minute Pitch - (April 2) •Death By Document - The Marketing Resume - (April 9) •Mechanics of the Job Search - (April 16) •Advanced Interviewing Skills - (April 23) •Salary Negotiations - (April 30)•

These are FREE seminars offered by The New Providence UMC, 1441 Springfield Ave., New Providence, NJ

The seminar will be led by Lloyd Feinstein, founder of Career Marketing Consultants. Mr. Feinstein, with 27-years of experince, is one of the most innovative, capable, committed career coaches in the New York metropolitan area.

No pre-registration is needed!Have other seminar questions? Call 908-464-5535For travel directions, visit www.gbgm-umc.org/npumcnj

Christ UMC MailboxI’d like to thank all the church family who prayed on my behalf and sent cards to cheer me up. It meant a lot to me. I hope to be back soon to harass my favorite people. Ha! Ha!

Mel Hardgrove

Dear Christ United Methodist Church,

Thank you kindly for all your prayers and love to my family while I have been recovering.

Sincerely, Ann Patton & family

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Kezia Edward 04/01Cheryl Scriven 04/02Wilson Stallworth 04/02Denali Trainor 04/02Kayla Young 04/02Sofya Andemicael 04/04Julia Colvin 04/04Brooke Ruoff 04/04Susan Ulyak 04/04Seymour Grey 04/06Joey Sarro 04/06Fabian Thompson 04/06Chantelle Browne 04/07Sophia Joseph 04/08Milena Otoo 04/08Mark Ruoff 04/08Janet Forgash 04/09

Mel Hardgrove 04/09Cynthia Wewers 04/09Patrick Manages 04/10Cynthia Parker 04/10Laurene Cholish 04/11Marge Hendrickson 04/11Godee Valencia 04/11Dorcas Helberg 04/12Ines Piraneque 04/12Victoria Greene 04/15Donna Link 04/17Owen Stallworth 04/17Denise Arnone 04/19Sam Rajasingam 04/19Mildred Hall 04/21Karen Blazier 04/22Kathryn Tharp 04/23

Jordan Dash 04/24Roderick Thompson 04/24Marcia Colby 04/25Rick Perhach 04/25Talia Rajasingam 04/25Doug Howes Jr. 04/26Daniella Thompson 04/26Sandy Bennett 04/27Wayne Karnell 04/27Jessica Walker 04/27Evelyn Arroyo 04/28Ashley Zamora 04/28Adam Latham 04/29Tommy Wolfe 04/29Ellen Johnson 04/30Kevin Schmidt 04/30

Remember our Sick & Homebound FriendsPlease keep in touch – in thought, word, and deed – with these members of our Church Family:

Bruce Conway Anna Jajecznyk Calvin Van Talmedge

Check your Church Directory or call the Admin. Office if you need their mailing address.

Holy Week ServicesThe Music Ministry invites you to worship with us during this most sacred week of the year. We begin the week with the presentation of the Cantata on Sunday April 1, 2012 followed by services on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter. There will be a variety of music, along with other worship arts. Come, journey with us as we follow the life, death and resurrection of our Lord.

Summer MusicHave you always wanted to sing on a Sunday morning in church? It is not too early to think about music for the summer. If you would like to sing a solo or be part of an ensemble, please contact Lynne Stallworth to talk about how you can share your talents with the congregation this summer.

GOSPEL CHOIR STOLES The gospel choir has a new look! We will bless the new stoles during the service on April 15, 2012. Thanks to Sallie Trainor for her generosity in sharing her talents and time.

MAD CAMP is back!Save the date! We will work on our play during the week of July 23 – 27. 2012 from 12:15 - 4:30. Of course, if you are available during the mornings of that same week, I am sure that Mrs. Hopkins would LOVE your help with VBS. Stay tuned for details.

Music Ministry Notes

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April 2012 9

2012 General Conference of the United Methodist ChurchApril 24, 2012 through May 4, 2012Tampa Convention Center, Tampa, FL 33602

A UMNS Commentary By the Rev. Tom Albin*

The beauty of being a part of a connectional church is that we can call on one another to pray and support each other in prayer. As the 2012 General Conference approaches, it is important to know our prayer foundation is firm and we are connected in a global prayer network.

Prayer is the foundation for Christian discipleship and the essence of United Methodist spirituality. The Wesley brothers taught us “a sincere desire is an authentic prayer.”

Frances Jennings of the Florida Annual (regional) Conference and I co-lead the General Conference Prayer Support team that is calling every United Methodist member and congregation, in every state and every nation, to surround and support General Conference in prayer. I am convinced the one thing every United Methodist can do to influence the outcome of this General Conference is to lift it to the Lord in prayer.

In partnership with The Upper Room, the Prayer Support team is providing “50 Days of Prayer for the General Conference,” a daily prayer resource available free as an e-pub, email subscription or downloadable PDF. Our goal is to have the entire United Methodist Church membership praying with the elected delegates and praying for God’s will to be done, in God’s way and in God’s time.

Significant spiritual preparation and planning are taking place to create prayer support for General Conference. Every United Methodist member can participate in this global prayer movement. Whether you are sitting in your home or participating at the Tampa site, your prayers will influence the future of our church.

How to join the prayer network

Here is how you can get involved in this exciting prayer ministry:

Visit the prayer website maintained by the United Methodist Board of Discipleship. It contains information, guidance and suggestions to help United Methodists pray together in new and meaningful ways.

Use the prayer resource, “50 Days of Prayer Before and During the General Conference.” Download a free e-book (epub) or PDF version, or subscribe to the daily email at 50 Days of Prayer.

Organize a prayer vigil in your local church, cluster or district. Consider praying throughout the hours that General Conference is in session (April 24-May 4 from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. EDT).

Ask, pray, seek and listen

John and Charles Wesley taught the early Methodist people, “God does nothing apart from prayer.” The teaching of the Bible is equally clear, “Unless God builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.” (Psalm 127:1a, An Inclusive-Language Lectionary)

Friends, our prayers are needed for this General Conference. There is more potential for significant change to occur this year than at any other time since 1968. We need God’s wisdom promised in James 1:2-5. We pray because Jesus promised that if we ask, seek and knock, we will receive an answer and the doors will open.

As we ask, pray, seek and listen, I believe God will act and The United Methodist Church will be transformed.

*Albin, a clergy member of the Oklahoma Conference, is dean of The Upper Room and director of ecumenical relations. He is co-chair of the Prayer Support Team for General Conference 2012.

News media contact: Steve Horswill-Johnston, United Methodist Board of Discipleship, 615-340-1726, [email protected].

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SUNDAY/DATE LESSON 1 PSALM LESSON 2 GOSPEL

Our church made $494.25 during the month of Februarythrough the purchase of grocery gift cards.

We truly thank those who give in this special, easy way & hope others will join in.

Year to Date Revenue and Expenses: Actual vs. Budget RE: CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS

The IRS requires all tax deductions for charitable contributions be supported by a written communication from the charity. If itemizing deductions & therefore you require this documentation, we strongly recommend that you use your personal offering envelope (or a pew offering envelope with your name & address on it) for any cash contributions that you may make to the church, to provide you with the necessary documentation at year’s end. CASH CONTRIBUTIONS

NOT PROPERLY IDENTIFIED CANNOT BE

DOCUMENTED. Questions? Contact Rick Evers, Financial Secretary.

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12 April 2012

Millie Grey Licensed Professional Counselor New Horizons Counseling Services

College & Career Planning26 Patton Drive, Somerset, NJ 08873

Choosing a College Application Process College Essay Cover Letter & Resume Writing Interview Techniques Job Search Strategies

732-247-0346 [email protected]

Tough Times? Need someone who cares to listen?

Ask Pastor, or Beth Hart (732-968-9334) or Nancy Drake (732-463-1517) or email [email protected]

about

Christ Caring for People Through People

Sheenan Funeral Home 233 Dunellen Ave.,

Dunellen, N.J. 732-968-4227

Thomas E. Sheenan, Owner/manager NJ Lic. #2592

Metlar’s Florist464 Metlar’s Lane, Piscataway, NJ

732-463-1171

Page 13: April 2012, Volume IX, Issue IV From the Pastor€¦ · April 2012, Volume IX, Issue IV Jesus said, ... Choir trip to Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir (1 ... So go and experience this celebration

April 2012 13

WW

Providing quality

Real Estate services for

11 years.

Carpet Carpet Carpet Carpet KKKKinginginging

Email: [email protected]

Evelyn M. HartmannAttorney at Law

One Woodbridge Ctr., Suite 240 Woodbridge, NJ 07095

732-750-0050

• • •

SEWING

Call Elreta Blackman 732-968-7280

Page 14: April 2012, Volume IX, Issue IV From the Pastor€¦ · April 2012, Volume IX, Issue IV Jesus said, ... Choir trip to Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir (1 ... So go and experience this celebration

14 October 2011

Christ United Methodist Church485 Hoes LanePiscataway, NJ 08854

Phone: 732-463-1517Fax: 732-699-1112Email: [email protected]: http://www.ChristUMCpiscataway.com

NONPROFITORGANIZATION

US POSTAGE PAIDNEW BRUNSWICK NJ

PERMIT NO 895

CHRIST UNITED

CHURCH

ME

TH

OD

IST

“Over 50 years: Open Doors, Open Hearts, Open Minds”

Services: 8:00am and 10:30am Sunday School: 9:15am

Newsletter Staff: Fran Adams, Lois Bjornsen, Elreta Blackman, Nancy Drake, Tim and Becky Espar, Betty FitzGerald, Janet Forgash, Julie Griffith, Karen Griffith, Judy Hopkins, Joan Johnson, Sunny Merrill, Esther Pustai, Joan Reed and Edie Turi.

Don’t fo

rget

to b

uy S

uperm

arket Gift Cards and help supp

ort C

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If you or a friend could use someone who listens, encourages, keeps confidence,

prays, supports, and walks beside a hurting person,

contact the pastor orchurch office phone (732

• • •

If you or a friend could use someone who listens, encourages, keeps confidence,

prays, supports, and walks beside a hurting person,

contact the pastor or Stephen Leaders, Beth Hart or Nancy Drake(732-463-1517) or email: [email protected]

• • • •

who listens, encourages, keeps confidence, prays, supports, and walks beside a hurting person,

s, Beth Hart or Nancy Drake: [email protected]