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The Link Auburn United Methodist Church, 207 S. Auburn Road, Auburn, MI 48611 989-662-6314

A passionate, Spirit-led community where people meet and serve Christ

Inside This Issue Cover… From the Pastor’s Desk Page 2.. Corn Fest Worship in the Park Page 3… VBS Page 4… Loons Faith Night Page 6… Birthdays Page 7… Schedules Page 8… Left the Building Page 9… Sunday School Page 10… Information

Connecting people with the love and life of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the World.

2019 SEPTEMBER

From the Pastor’s Desk Fables, parables, and stories often help us see things with new insight; here’s one that I’ve written, I hope you’ll enjoy it: A man wanted to become the disciple of a great teacher so he went to the master and said, “I am here in hopes of becoming your disciple.” The teacher replied, “Go, and return when you have learned one of the very greatest truths of life, and you will be my disciple.” The man left in search of one of life’s greatest truths. He carefully observed the changing of the seasons, and many wonders of nature hoping to discover a great truth, and saw many things that he had never seen before. Finally, after many days, the man returned and said, “One of the very greatest truths in life is that God has made creation like a great clock, and the sun rises faithfully every morning.” The teacher calmly replied, “Go, and return when you have learned one of the very greatest truths of life, and you will be my disciple.” Disappointed the man left. After some reflection he decided that he should look for the greatest truths among people, so he spent many hours watching people, listening carefully, and asking them questions. He visited the sick; he helped the poor; he talked with parents and with children; he asked lovers of their joy and celebrated at weddings; and his heart was deeply touched at a neighbor’s funeral. All this he did in search of one of the greatest of life’s truths. Finally, after several weeks, the man returned and said, “One of the very greatest truths in life is that love is priceless, and people need love as much as anything in the world.” The teacher calmly replied, “Go, and return when you have learned one of the very greatest truths of life, and you will be my disciple.” Frustrated the man left, and after some consideration he decided to search the holy scriptures for the greatest truths in life. He read the scriptures each morning when he rose, and he read them every evening before bed. He learned much about God and he studied the history of his faith. The stories were interesting, but it seemed that every great hero also at times failed a test of faith. The man was deeply puzzled until he suddenly realized something very important. With great excitement he hurried to the wise teacher and said, “One of the greatest truths of life is that humanity must learn from the wisdom of our ancestors and also from the mistakes of the past.” But once again the great teacher replied, “Go, and return when you have learned one of the very greatest truths of life, and you will be my disciple.”

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The man then decided that the greatest truths must be within the soul. He prayed fervently at least three times a day, he fasted a day each week, and tithed to the house of worship. He meditated on the scriptures and tried to relate them to his life. For the first time in his life the man really felt close to God. He quickly returned to the teacher and said, “One of the greatest truths in life is that to know one’s self one must also know the Creator.” But once again the great teacher calmly replied, “Go, and return when you have learned one of the very greatest truths of life, and you will be my disciple.” Exasperated, the man said, “I could keep learning all my life and never discover one of the greatest truths of life. When can I be your disciple?” The teacher replied, “You have been my disciple, and you have discovered many of the greatest truths of life. I send all my disciples out in search of truth, and yes, you must keep learning all of your life.” Shalom, Pastor Rob Nystrom

FUN RIDE

WHEN: September 15 TIME: Start 2:00 PM End approx. 5:00 PM WHERE: Start at Emerson Park, ride to Sanford and back to Emerson Park. THIS IS A FUN RIDE! NO REGISTRATIONS. RIDE AT YOUR OWN RISK. We are looking for someone to be a SAG support person and someone willing to provide refreshments at a checkpoint in Avril. There is a sign up sheet at the Serving Center in the Fellowship Hall.

TRANSFERING MEMBER CLASS

We have some United Methodist brothers and sisters who want to

transfer their membership to Auburn UMC. We also have some from other denominations who want to transfer

as well. I want to have a class – only 3 sessions – for both groups in

preparation for membership at Auburn UMC. We will begin on Sept. 15

and recognize those joining Auburn UMC on Oct. 6th.

The class will meet in Pastor’s office

at 10:00 am (between services). Any questions please call Pastor Rob

at 269-535-2481 or the office at 989-662-6314.

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OTHER NEWS FROM PASTOR ROB: Cost Cutting Measures We have been doing two things to improve the financial health of Christ’s church, AUMC: Working to cut expenses, and asking for your increased financial support. Thank you for your help. A few of the cost cutting measures have been: Eliminating lawn Service: Savings of $60 per week. Thanks to Bruce Hayward and Josh Nystrom for their work. Reducing Nursery Staff hours: Savings of $60 per week this summer, $40 per week Sept.-May. Our thanks to the volunteers who have served as the second caregiver this summer. Changing Custodial Service: Savings $50 per week. We are now working with the Arnold Center for our custodial needs. This provides special needs individuals with supervised employment and helps our church too. They are doing an excellent job, and your patience is appreciated as they learn our physical plant and program schedules. Our hope is that with your increased financial support and the cost containing measures that we’ve taken, we will not have to make further, more impactful changes. Thank you for your help in empowering the work of Christ’s church! Summer is gone! And our Nominations Committee is working on nominations for our Annual Church Conference on Sunday, October 27 at 2pm at Bay City Grace UMC. Our premise is that those serving terms will complete them, unless we hear from you (ASAP).

Pastor’s New Book Study Beginning Wednesday, September 18 Pastor Rob will be leading a book study from 7-8 pm on Wednesdays. We will be using Phillip Gulley’s book, “If God Is Love: Rediscovering Grace In An Ungracious World" . The class will meet for 10 weeks and the cost of the book is $9.

FALL PRAYER VIGIL WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25

9 AM - 9 PM SIGN UP SHEET & PRAYER GUIDE COMING SOON

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With the cost cutting measures we have been taking, it gave us an opportunity to explore other options for custodial services. In this process the Trustees found this AWESOME place called the Arnold Center in Midland. The Arnold Center provides individualized services that enhance the vocational, social and life skills of any person with differing needs and aspirations. So for those of you who may not know what that is because there is all this politically correct terminology that kind of makes people go “What did you just say?” The Arnold Center is a place for someone like my step-son Keneniah to find and learn a trade. Keneniah is on the Autistic spectrum, he is a very smart young man for some things, but not for others, he lacks the social skills needed to work at most jobs. He needs guidance to keep on track with what he is supposed to be doing, he would not do well working independently for more than one or two tasks. If he lived with us full time I would have him involved with the Arnold Center. At the Arnold Center they provide job opportunities for people like Keneniah and many with other disabilities with supervision and guidance to help them learn a trades that can be done with their needs. Here at AUMC we now have a crew of 2 or 3 individuals working with 1 or 2 supervisors to clean the church building. Their vision says: “They are a one stop connection for job creation and coordination of resources that maximize independence and community inclusion for individuals with differing needs.” If you have a moment check out their website arnoldcenter.org, they really have a lot going on, they also offer computer and electronic recycling. Maybe it is because I have raised my own son who has struggles with disabilities and I also have a step-son with disabilities but I just think programs like this are so AWESOME and I am so EXCITED that we can be involved in this. You have no idea the impact of being able to work and the inclusion into the community having a job makes a person with a disability feel, it is a total sense of self-worth. So if you are in the building on Wednesday morning, they are here usually from 9am - around 2pm. Please be welcoming, say “HI!” Some of them are a little socially awkward but that’s ok. They have been doing a really good job and are adjusting well as they learn. Even though I have to keep convincing the one young man that there are no ghosts in the basement after Becky apparently went down a different stairway and scared the bejeebers out of him because he didn’t know she was down there. He keeps telling me he thought there was a ghost down there.

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Thank you to everyone that participated in the “Why I love my church” campaign, my heart was filled while I typed each one into the computer each week and hung them on the big bulletin board. I hope you have all taken the time to look at them. When I had the idea to do this, there is so much going on, I felt there was so much negativity, people were scared of the unknown, the uncertainty in the direction of the UMC and the differences in each other. I hope that as you read the comments left on the hearts that you come to the same conclusion that I did, no matter what any vote results are we are a church family, we love our community and our mission work and we love each other. I case you haven’t been to church in a while or just haven’t had time to stop at the board and read the hearts here is what they had to say…. Good messages. Like Family, everyone is friendly, loving & caring for each other and teach from the Bible as Christ would have taught us.

This church is very friendly and helpful. having many more activities. This helps people get together and know one another. I pray that everything goes well. Everyone needs to work together.

The church family makes me feel a sense of belonging. I come each week and always leave refreshed in spirit and faith through the message and fellowship. I look forward to Sunday mornings!

Because Christ led me to this Church, the congregation is warm and welcoming and we do many missions to serve local and around the world. Also because Pastor Rob is caring and his sermons are bible based with a bit of humor. –Pat Lyvere

Divided we fail and die. United we thrive and flourish. WE ARE UNITED METHODIST – Bill Chambers

Because the Holy Spirit is present, lovely people are present, and mission giving abounds. – Barb Anderson

The first thing we loved about this church was the music. We arrived the same time as Pastor Rob. We love the intelli-gence and humanity he brings to each service. Then we started meeting the wonderful folks who also attend here. This church is the “Total Package”. –The Stockfords

Is the fact that the community reaches out to OUR church to be involved in their projects. Example, this year the li-brary called and asked if we could help with their Summer Reading Program start up. We were the only church there. The Jaycee’s asked for help with donuts & coffee after the Christmas Parade, Tri-City Furniture-Movie Night, Auburn Elementary Color run. Thanks to all for the outreach. We pass out information at each event.

Outreach & the community. Everyone Welcome.

Christian fellowship and family. Outreach to community.

Love Children and very welcoming!

Praise Band !!!!

I love the Prayer Room and that the Prayer Room is used!!! “Be joyful always, pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Seeing my friends from many years.

Friendly, Welcoming people!!

I love my Pastor! The Holy Spirit is strong in him.

So many Sharing, caring, people.

The people really care about your well-being. Continued next page……..

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The church family is very dear to me. I have found the love of God and my faith has brought me thru. I am thankful to be here.

This church and members have become my other home and family. The love and support is overwhelming! Thanks to each and every one! God loves you and so do I. Roye Burr

I love that our church cares for one another in so many ways: Prayers, meals, calls, volunteering, funeral meals, cards, and more.

We fallow the Bible, care for each other, friendly, like family.

I love my church because I feel like being in the presents of God. The music puts me in the mood of doing good for oth-ers and I enjoy doing it. Sunday school is very fun. I love looking into God’s word so deeply and analyzing it bit by bit. My Sunday school teacher is fun and very supportive. - Addy

It’s my family – so gracious with others needs, helpful to ALL.

Friendly & Helpful. Pastor and his family are great and Pastor has a good sense of humor. God is Great!

We are a family that cares about each other. Christ believing Sunday School. Community and world out reach. Always a way to help others.

I am thankful for such a great food panty for people in need.

Great Vacation Bible School! Thank You!

…because my church reflects Gods love for each of us. …because God can use each of us to promote His kingdom. – Pat Hughes

… because each of us is important to each other. … my church promotes the future through its childrens ministries. – Pat Hughes

Because even after many years of calling for food donations for funeral dinners our members and friends of our church answer my calls when they see my name on their caller ID. I love this service we give to those grieving & we couldn’t do it without the help of our wonderful congregation. – Pat Lyvere

Our roots in this church go very deep. In 1946 Clayton & I joined the church. In 1956 we were united in marriage at the same altar. We became Christians in 1964. We have seen God work in wonderful ways with His favor on our church and in our lives. Special projects and services have thrives because of prayer and hard work. We are thankful for friends here and for God’s blessings. – Clayton & Marilyn

So many reasons! Good people – Caring people – Blessings for the congregation!

No Judgement – Everyone Welcome!

I am thankful for all the little children who come to our church.

My family is here

Oh AUMC my Lord & Savior guided to this port my soul in the storm. Thank you Jesus. – Patricia

My Pastor. My Home. My friends in Christ. – Patti Wescott

Some of my fondest memories as a kid were here, some people are like family to me.

I grew up Catholic and was touched my first day here how children were appreciated and allowed to be children with family in sanctuary and are included as much as possible. Little people become adults J -- Monica

Every Sabbath my Lord & I have an appointment to meet here at AUMC to keep Holy the Sabbath. Oh what a blessing he brings. Grace to take me through worry some world. Thank you Jesus. – Patricia

Family. We share our love for you and each member. Praises -- Patricia

Sunday School. Jonathan.

Because the congregation truly cares about one another and about our community.

I love being able to go to Sunday School. I never had that as a child.

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The UMW will be tying Quilts for Kids on Sept. 12 and Sept. 19 from 10am - 3 pm. We would appreciate everyone who could help for whatever time you are able. we generally do about 30 quilts. Please bring your lunch. There will be a sign up sheet at the Serving Center in the Fellowship Hall.

UMW Outing - Amish Dinner -- All are welcome to join us for an Amish dinner on October 17th at 5pm in Clare. There will be a sign-up sheet and information in the Fellowship Hall. The last one we attended was excellent! Please join us for a fun time and good food.

Apple Pie Time - Please note your calendar to help the United Methodist Women on Wednesday, October 16th, Friday, October 18th, Saturday, October 19th; as well as Wednesday, October 23rd, Friday, October 25 and Saturday, October 26th. We greatly appreciate and need any time you can help during these 6 days. The profit we make on the pie sales goes to support many mission projects. Please come & share in the fellow-ship we enjoy while working to serve the Lord.

HELP PROVIDED The Caring Committee has launched their “Helping Hands, Willing Hearts” mission. Do you or someone you know from our church family need help with some household tasks, errand running, short-term babysitting, computers/small electronics, or a meal, etc.? Please contact Pat Lyvere at 989-266-3242 or Kathy Gilson at 989-662-2114 before 8:00pm on the prior day.

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Please don’t forget about the people on the Caring Team

Visitation List who are not able to come to Church as

often. If you need their address please contact

the Church office.

Roger Anderson June Filcek

Don Gilson Ed Putnam

Sharon Dengel Don Spaulding

Shirley Doll Wes & Donna Samborn

Echo Ignafol Ardis Juhala

SEPTEMBER ANNIVERSARIES

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8

21

Randy & Melissa Grew

Todd & Ashley Stevens

Steve & Kelly Krueger

SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAYS

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4

5

5

6

6

6

7

10

13

Sandra DeWaele

Lakin Weitzel

Bernice Colman

Blake Gibbon

Olivia Erwin

Randy Grew

Jennifer Williams

Maggie Tacktor

Glen Sinicki

Jeff Rahl

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17

20

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28

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Krystle Gibbon

Bev Witherspoon

Lea Marsh

Mason Jesse

Todd Stevens

Joe Czyzewski

Brianna Pine

Dennis Rogers

Ashley Stevens

Penny Fry

Word Verses for September 2019 James 4:8a

“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” Psalm 27:1

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

FINANCIAL STATUS

AUGUST’S

INCOME

YTD

INCOME

$13,153.80 $114,192.32

AUGUST’S

EXPENSES

YTD

EXPENSES

$13,007.10 $122,924.94

A detailed Income & Expense

Statement is available on the bulletin

board in the Fellowship Hall.

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FLOWERS ON THE ALTAR

15th In Memory of our mom, Barbara Jo Dhyse-Mahl’s birthday, from

her daughter, Terri, Shari & Lauri

SERVICE INFORMATION & VOLUNTEERS

Date Greeters Ushers Prayer Room

Welcome Center Counters Coffee

Hour

8:45 Service 11:15 Service

September 1

Joan Schrott Ann Wright

Bernie Hoy & Fred Kloepfer

Patricia Benedict

Roye Burr

Ann & Lyndsay Team #5

n/a n/a n/a n/a

September 8

Roye & Sandy Burr

Ted & Nancy Tiede

Barb Anderson

Carol Holiday

Ann & Lyndsay Team # 3

Sue Plessner Dawn Krawczak Adrienne Meyer n/a Betty Stark

September 15

Steve & Kelly Krueger

Larry & Janet Rahl

Marilyn Davis

Pat Lyvere

Sheila & Lyndsay Team # 6

Betty Stark Fallon Wiles n/a Monica Bedtelyon

September 22

Jim & Barb Cody

Bud Stevens Ann Wright

Trudy Pischel

Paulette Miller

Sheila & Lyndsay Team # 9

Fallon Wiles Sam Samborn n/a Al & Carol Gonzales

September 29

Bill & Liz Shephard

Jim & Barb Cody

Sheila Hoy

Janet Stevens

Team # 8 Sheila & Ann

Sue Plessner Dawn Krawczak Adrienne Meyer n/a Al & Carol

Gonzales

Worship volunteers - If you can not be here for your scheduled time, please find someone to switch with you and notify the office of the change. - Thank you!

October 6

Sheila & Ann Team # 7

Sandy DeWaele Monica Bedtelyon n/a Betty Stark

October 13

Bernie & Ann Team # 1

Sue Plessner Dawn Krawczak Adrienne Meyer n/a Betty Stark

October 20

Bernie & Ann Team # 11

Betty Stark Fallon Wiles n/a Monica Bedtelyon

October 27

Paulette

Miller Bernie & Jean

Fallon Wiles Sam Samborn n/a Al & Carol Gonzales

Sorry I don’t have the schedule yet.

Sorry I don’t have the schedule yet.

Sorry I don’t have the schedule yet.

Sorry I don’t have the schedule yet.

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12

207 S. Auburn Rd.

Auburn, MI 48611

(989) 662-6314

Pastor Rob’s Cell

(269)535-2481

Church Office Hours: Monday – Thursday

9:00 am – 1:30 pm

Pastor’s Typical Office Hours: Tuesday & Thursdays

10:00 am - 12:00 pm

If you would like to meet with

Pastor Rob please call the church office

to schedule an appointment

or contact Pastor Rob.

Website: auburnumc.org

Email: office@auburnumc.org

www.Facebook.com/AuburnUMC

Administrative Assistant ; Jennifer Williams

Bookkeeper: Amy Samborn

Coordinator of Music: Pat McIlvenna

Worship Leader & Keyboardist: Gabrielle Cook

Nursery: Phyllis Roberts

Pastor: Rev. Rob Nystrom

CHURCH STAFF

A U B U R N U N I T E D M E T H O D I S T C H U R C H

Our Vision: Creating a church where children and youth love to attend. Our Mission: Connecting people with the love and life of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Our Core Values: 1. Prayer is a powerful means through which we relate to God. 2. The Bible is the authoritative source for knowing God. 3. Jesus is God's Son. He is the One who reveals in a way like no other that God loves us unconditionally with amazing grace. 4. Mission, local and distant, is a means to love our neighbor in real and relevant ways. 5. Imitating our Lord by practice, practice, practice realizing that none of us are perfect, but we are all on the faith journey together. 6. The Holy Spirit is God’s guiding Presence in whom “…we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28).